The Relais & Châteaux Trophies are awarded to people and properties in recognition of excellent standards. The Rising Chef Trophy is awarded to a particularly promising chef within the organisation's 499 properties worldwide and turns the spotlight on the new generation responsible for the future of the culinary arts. Referred to as a 'charming French chef' by the British press, the guide stated that: "This young Frenchman is totally at home in this small property of charm where he prepares John Dory with 'a tiny oriental touch... an infusion of red and green peppers with lavender honey'; and his 'venison from the Queen's estate at Balmoral with winter root vegetables and a little Brussels sprout salad'. He loves to 'add a touch of colour and freshness' to create what he calls 'happy food'". Born in Lure in the Comte region of Eastern France, Daniel started cooking from an early age. His career has taken him all over the world including Sweden, France and London, where he worked at the highly acclaimed Le Gavroche under the tutelage of Albert Roux. From 1996 until 2003, Daniel retained the Michelin star at Harvey's in Bristol, before moving to L'Ortolan near Reading and in 2006 regained a Michelin star at the renowned Cliveden House in Berkshire. On receiving his award, Daniel said: "This award was a total surprise. Everyone works extremely hard to retain the very high standard of the hotel. It really is a team effort and the award goes to all of us."