VIDEO: Chef Benoit Violier reportedly 'the victim of a £1million wine scam'

The Staff Canteen

It has been reported that the 'world's best chef', Benoit Violier, who was found dead in his home last week, was the victim of a huge wine scam that put him in considerable financial trouble.

The 44 year-old, whose Restaurant de l'Hotel de Ville was awarded three Michelin stars, committed suicide last Sunday.

He left no note but it is now claimed he was in significant financial trouble, despite the apparent success of his restaurant in Crissier, near Lausanne in Switzerland.

According to reports, the renowned chef fell victim to a scheme where rare wines priced from £14,000 up to £27,500 were sold to restaurants - but never delivered.

Violier was laid to rest on Saturday in France. A service was also held on Friday in Lausanne, Switzerland, where 1500 people attended.

>>> Read: Gordon Ramsay is top UK restaurant in La Liste's world top 1000

Violier's death came just weeks after his Restaurant de l'Hotel de Ville was crowned the best of 1,000 top eateries across 48 countries ranked by France's La Liste.

Violier said at the time: 'It's wonderful, it's exceptional for us. This ranking will only motivate our team more.'

>>> Read: 'World's best chef' Benoit Violier found dead in apparent suicide 

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The Staff Canteen

The Staff Canteen

Editor 8th February 2016

VIDEO: Chef Benoit Violier reportedly 'the victim of a £1million wine scam'