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Matsusaka beef
A premium brand of wagyu beef raised under strict standards in and around Matsusaka, Mie Prefecture. Prized for its fine, dense marbling and buttery texture, it commands very high prices.
松阪牛 is a brand of 和牛 (wagyu) raised under strict feeding and pedigree standards in the Matsusaka area of Mie Prefecture. It is known for its fine, dense marbling (霜降り) and very tender, buttery texture.
Common expressions
- 松阪牛の霜降り: the marbling of Matsusaka beef
- 松阪牛のステーキ: Matsusaka beef steak
- 松阪牛の産地: the beef's place of origin
Cultural note
松阪牛 is traditionally counted, along with 神戸牛 (Kobe beef) and 近江牛 (Omi beef), among Japan's "three great wagyu brands" (三大和牛). Restaurants and gift boxes often display the specific brand name prominently to signal quality and justify the high price.