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

I started appreciating a good soy sauce after an episode of “Chef’s Table” about a South Korea nun, Jeong Kwan, who talked philosophically about how soy sauce is the foundation of all seasoning, with tradition passed from ancestors — a connection to your past. “I use soy sauce, and I acknowledge its importance. It is no longer just me that’s doing things. It’s me in the past, in the present, and even in the future. Soy sauce is eternal. It is life itself.”I just purchased this bottle and tasted a few drops. Describing it in terms of flavor alone is like trying to capture a symphony by humming just one note. This soy sauce is life, indeed!

This is the absolute BEST soy sauce I've ever had, bar none! As soon as you try it, you instantly get the familiar soy sauce flavors, then the depth of other flavors start to roll in. I detect a hint of oak along with the delicious umami. This would elevate ANY dish, however, it seems so special that I would only want to use it with the most delicious sushi, or as a finishing sauce. I would be too afraid to cook any of these well balanced notes out (although I've not tried to do so!).I recommend this to anyone wanting the next-level soy sauce experience, you shall not be disappointed!

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 ProcessYamaroku 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 IngredientsThe 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 ProductsYamaroku 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-ConsciousThe 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 RecognitionYamaroku 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.

This is amazing stuff. When I ordered it my wife rolled her eyes and said soy sauce is soy sauce. This is now all she wants to cook with.

very tasty with real fermented smell. Highly recommended for sushi and sashimi.

The taste of this soy sauce is amazing. I saw how the soy sauce was made on TV and had to try it. It's on the expensive side, but worth the price because it came all the way from Japan and made the traditional way.

Super rich and luxuriant. Tasty, thick and delicious.

No doubt the process, as well as intentionality, is artisan and genuine. But as a seasoned taster of East Asian shoyu, I cannot say the outcome lives up to the expectation. It is not bad, of course; if it weren't for all that overly done high praises from the promo videos and the reviews, I might say it's really good. But as a fact, it is good but not much better than the less decorated brands of shoyu/soya sauce, in terms of texture, umami, and flavor - on its own or with meat, veg, or as a dip.I'd still say it's worth the price since it's advertised as an artform and I'm paying not just for the functionality but for the process of making as well. But don't expect too much. That said, it is an enjoyable sauce.