Yamaroku Shoyu Pure Artisan Dark Sweet Japanese Premium Gourmet Barrel Aged 4 Year Soy Sauce "Tsuru Bishio", 18oz (532ml) - 1 Pack

This is an unpaid review; I've gone into a lot of detail because this is worth every penny! Yamaroku Shoyu is a renowned Japanese soy sauce manufacturer with a rich history that spans over 150 years. Based on Shodoshima Island, Yamaroku Shoyu is celebrated for its traditional brewing methods, which are both time-honored and rare in the modern food industry. The company is committed to producing high-quality, artisanal soy sauce using traditional wooden vats, known as kioke, which have been in use for centuries. Here are some key features that make Yamaroku Shoyu stand out: 1. Traditional Brewing Process Yamaroku Shoyu follows a natural fermentation process that can take several years to complete. Unlike mass-produced soy sauces, Yamaroku uses natural fermentation in these wooden barrels, which allows the soy sauce to develop a deep, complex flavor profile. This method ensures that the soy sauce is rich in umami and has a more authentic, layered taste compared to modern, chemically produced soy sauces. 2. Use of Wooden Barrels (Kioke) Yamaroku Shoyu is one of the few companies that still use traditional wooden barrels for fermentation. These barrels are made from Japanese cedar, and the company even launched efforts to revive the craft of kioke production due to its declining practice in Japan. The natural bacteria and yeast found in the wood contribute to the unique flavor of the soy sauce, adding complexity that stainless steel tanks cannot replicate. 3. No Additives or Artificial Ingredients The soy sauce produced by Yamaroku Shoyu contains no artificial preservatives, additives, or coloring agents. It's crafted from just four basic ingredients: soybeans, wheat, salt, and water, making it a pure and natural choice. This commitment to simplicity and purity ensures that their product is not only flavorful but also healthier for consumers concerned about chemical processing in food. 4. Signature Products Yamaroku Shoyu offers a range of soy sauces, but two of their most famous products are: Tsurubishio: A premium dark soy sauce that is aged for four years, known for its deep, rich flavor and umami quality. It's perfect for sushi, sashimi, and dishes that benefit from a rich seasoning. Kikubishio: A slightly lighter soy sauce aged for about two years, with a more delicate taste that’s ideal for soups, stews, and other dishes where a subtler soy flavor is desired. 5. Artisanal and Eco-Conscious The company prides itself on its artisanal methods and is deeply connected to preserving traditional Japanese brewing culture. By continuing to use wooden barrels and maintaining a slow, natural fermentation process, Yamaroku Shoyu reflects an eco-conscious approach in an era of rapid industrialization. The company even hosts tours of their facilities, allowing visitors to witness firsthand the intricate and careful process of soy sauce making. 6. Global Recognition Yamaroku Shoyu has earned acclaim from chefs and food enthusiasts worldwide for its superior quality. It's often considered the gold standard of soy sauce, providing an unparalleled balance of sweetness, umami, and depth. As consumers around the world seek more authentic and naturally produced products, Yamaroku Shoyu has gained a reputation as a premium soy sauce brand. Yamaroku Shoyu is a company dedicated to preserving tradition while producing an extraordinary product that honors Japanese craftsmanship and culinary heritage. Whether you're a home cook or a professional chef, their soy sauce elevates dishes with authenticity and depth of flavor that’s hard to match.

Oh there is such a difference from regular soy sauce. It is thicker, sweeter, and well balanced without a bite to the tongue. The value was very good as compared to other brands per ounce. I really don't think I can go back to regular grocery store soy sauce. It is the perfect pairing with sushi, ramen, dumplings or any other dish! Some may consider it a spurge but, it is definitely worth the money for such a superior product!

This artisan soy sauce has a really intense, layered flavor that blew me away compared to the usual grocery store bottles. The depth and umami are noticeable right away very rich and slightly sweet, with a complexity you don’t get from mass produced brands. I’ve been using it on sushi, grilled fish, and even in homemade teriyaki it elevates everything without tasting overly salty. The quality shows, and you can tell it’s been aged a long time and carefully crafted. If you’re into cooking and want a premium soy sauce that actually makes a difference in flavor, this is worth it.

I've had something like this at an upscale sushi place when I ordered a special combo chef's choice that wasn't cheap. The special soy sauce that came with that was exceptional. Well, this stuff is really exceptional. It's not just better than regular soy sauce, it's probably what soy sauce is actually supposed to be and the rest of what we get is just mass-produced whatever. Normal soy sauce is basically something salty. This has some salt, but the primary flavor is something else, something very umami and amazing on sashimi, which is what I'm having it with. It isn't watery, it's kind of dense, even a little thick, and the flavor is deep, full, complex, very satisfying and only a little bit turns the rest of what it's on into something much better. I guess I'm saying that the price is misleading. first, it's actually quite a lot in a bottle. Probably twice the amount in the previous one I had that was about $26 - a smoked one aged not as long. Second, this isn't just "soy sauce", it's some kind of nectar, a flavor explosion without drama, just amazingly good and I'd say it's well worth it if you have a sensitive, aware palate and you notice fine details of flavor. And third, such a little bit is needed on each piece of what you eat that I'm not sure that the price is as significant as it might seem. That little bit is making each piece tasted so much better and more interesting that I think it's the right thing to get this.

So I brought my own soy sauce to our local sushi restaurant. I was a little embarrassed, but I committed to the bit and poured some of this expensive liquid that I thought would completely blow my mind. It didn’t. The main reason I bought it was pure curiosity. It costs about six or seven times more than the soy sauce I usually buy at the grocery store, so naturally I wondered: is it actually seven times better? I’m not a soy sauce connoisseur, but I do appreciate the umami that Yamaroku Shoyu brings to sushi. It doesn’t overpower the fish or steal the flavor — it enhances it. The sauce has a deep, rich color, a smoother finish, and tastes less aggressively salty than standard soy sauce. Even our waiter commented that the bottle looked more like a fine whiskey than soy sauce. Was it life-changing? No. Was it interesting and genuinely good? Absolutely.

This soy sauce has a bold and savory taste compared to other brands of soy sauce such as Kikkoman. I use it exclusively for sashimi and like the added flavor. Pricey but worth it, in my opinion.

So, although this soy sauce is deeper, richer, and more complex than any other soy sauce I've ever tried, I think a number of the reviews are overstating the impact. If you are a fan of sashimi, or incredibly simple sushi rolls like salmon rolls, you will absolutely be able to taste the depth and complexity that this soy sauce brings to the table. It really does elevate these simple rolls and turn them into a much more enjoyable experience. As soon as you upgrade to higher ingredient count rolls like Philadelphia & California rolls, the subtlety of the soy sauce is largely lost in the details, at least if you're the kind of sushi eater like I am where you lightly dip one end of the rice in the sauce. If you bathe your rolls in soy sauce, you'll probably have a different experience. But if you're eating a roll with eel sauce and spicy mayo or fried shrimp, even then I doubt the subtle differences in this soy sauce will shine through. Am I glad I bought this soy sauce to try it out, to see what some of the best and fanciest soy sauce is like? Yes, absolutely. Will I buy it again? No. Ultimately, the advancements in technology where they bulk make soy sauce quickly in large metal drums is 85% as good, and an order of magnitude cheaper. And once you're using it on fried food or complicated sushi rolls, I wouldn't be able to tell a difference anyways. Final Judgment: Worthy of a purchase once, to see what the hype is about and make your own opinion. Not worth buying a second time.

Prepare to embark on a flavor journey like no other with the traditionally aged Yamaroku Shoyu Pure Artisan Soy Sauce. This remarkable culinary creation is more than just a condiment – it's a masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of time, tradition, and unparalleled craftsmanship. From the moment you uncork the bottle, the aroma alone hints at the exceptional quality within. The depth of fragrance is a symphony of umami, promising a culinary experience that transcends the ordinary. The fact that it's aged for four years only adds to the anticipation of the flavor explosion that's about to grace your palate. Upon tasting, you'll discover a complexity that dances across your taste buds. The balance of sweetness and saltiness is a testament to the delicate art of brewing and fermenting that has been perfected over generations. Every drop contains a rich history of Japanese culinary tradition, infused with the dedication of artisans who take their craft seriously. What sets the Yamaroku Shoyu Pure Artisan Soy Sauce apart is not just its remarkable taste, but the meticulous process behind it. The soy sauce is fermented in traditional cedar barrels, allowing it to develop its unique character over time. It's this commitment to authenticity that makes each bottle a testament to the pride and passion of the artisans. The versatility of this soy sauce is also worth celebrating. It's not just a finishing touch; it's an ingredient that elevates dishes to new heights. Whether you're using it to marinate, season, or dip, its flavor profile adds depth and complexity that's difficult to replicate with ordinary soy sauces. The bottle itself is a work of art, reflecting the care and attention that goes into every aspect of this product. From the sleek design to the handwritten label, it's clear that the Yamaroku Shoyu Pure Artisan Soy Sauce is a labor of love. In a world where convenience often trumps quality, this soy sauce is a refreshing reminder that true culinary greatness takes time and dedication. It's a condiment that bridges cultures, transcending borders and connecting food lovers with the essence of Japanese tradition. In conclusion, the 4-Year Japanese Yamaroku Shoyu Pure Artisan Soy Sauce is more than just a condiment – it's a culinary revelation. Its rich history, impeccable craftsmanship, and unforgettable flavor profile make it a must-have for anyone who appreciates the art of food. So, elevate your dishes to a new level of excellence and savor the symphony of flavors that only this artisan soy sauce can deliver.

Sabor refinado e intenso, excelente para cocina fria. NO para cocina caliente.

I saw a documentary about this manufacturer and was so impressed with them that I bought this right away. It does not disappoint. The favour is amazing, the right balance of bitterness with a complex aftertaste. Natural and made in old wooden casks over years like it should be and not in steel vats in months.

Imparagonabile alle salse che siamo abituati a trovare nella grande distribuzione: ha completamente un altro sapore. Anzi... ha un sapore. Se a questa ci si abbina anche una pasta che contiene una buona percentuale di wasabi vero, il sushi diventa tutta un'altra esperienza.

Je n'avais jamais essayé et par curiosité j'ai comparé avec la sauce classique vendue en grande surface. Conclusion : c'est un autre monde et je pense que ça vaut très largement son prix. Surtout que dans la plupart des plats je mets relativement peu de sauce soja : ça va me durer une bonne année de plats améliorés par rapport à l'ancienne sauce (qui va probablement finir à la poubelle franchement je ne sais plus quoi en faire).

Het is vooral een 'conversation starter', maar ook zeker fijn om te hebben in de keuken voor speciale gerechten. Als vrienden langskomen doen we altijd even een smaaktest; en je proeft 100% het verschil. Daarnaast is het natuurlijk gewoon fijn om mee te koken. De fles gaat nu al een jaar mee en ik heb ongeveer 3/4 gebruikt.