How is Wagyu beef graded?

Grading for Wagyu involves yield grades (A to C) and meat quality grades (1 to 5). A5 represents the pinnacle of quality.

Why does Wagyu beef come at a premium?

The breed's distinct genetics, their meticulous care, and specialized feeding lead to the unparalleled quality and taste of Wagyu, accounting for its premium price.

How should I store my Wagyu beef upon arrival?

Each Wagyu cut is vacuum-sealed for maximum freshness. Refrigerate for near-term consumption or freeze for prolonged storage.

Any tips for cooking Wagyu beef?

Given its rich marbling, Wagyu requires less cooking time. A high-heat, short-duration sear or reverse searing is ideal to truly relish its flavors.

Can I refreeze Wagyu beef after thawing?

To maintain the optimum taste and texture of Wagyu, avoid refreezing once it's been thawed.

How will my Wagyu beef be shipped?

We ensure that our Wagyu beef reaches you in prime condition by shipping it frozen in environmentally-friendly, insulated packaging.

I have concerns about my order. What should I do?

Our commitment is towards quality. If you find any issues, reach out to our customer service, and we'll address your concerns.

How Global Wagyu Genetics Are Redefining Premium Beef

When people hear "Wagyu beef," their thoughts often travel to Japan, the birthplace of this renowned beef known for its exceptional marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture. However, the world of Wagyu extends far beyond Japanese borders. Thanks to the globalization of Wagyu genetics, high-quality Wagyu beef is now produced in various countries, including the USA. At Plum Creek Wagyu, we are proud to be part of this global Wagyu community, raising cattle that meet and exceed the standards of this luxurious beef right here on our farm.

The Roots of Wagyu

Wagyu, which literally means "Japanese cow," refers to specific breeds of cattle that originated in Japan—most notably the Black, Brown, Shorthorn, and Polled breeds. These cattle are celebrated for their genetic predisposition to intense marbling which is intramuscular fat cells that create a web-like pattern across the meat, making it exceptionally tender and flavorful.

Global Expansion of Wagyu Genetics

The journey of Wagyu from a Japanese specialty to a global phenomenon began with the export of these prized cattle to different parts of the world in the late 20th century. Today, countries like the USA, Australia, and Canada have embraced Wagyu genetics, blending them with domestic breeds or raising fullblood Wagyu to produce beef that adheres to the luxurious standards set in Japan.

there are several famous Wagyu genetic lines, primarily originating from Japan, that are highly prized for their quality and specific traits. These genetic lines are often referenced by breeders and enthusiasts for their significant impact on the quality of Wagyu beef. Here are a few of the most renowned:

Tajima (or Tajiri): This is perhaps the most famous line within the Wagyu breed, originating from the Hyogo Prefecture. Tajima cattle are known for their exceptional marbling characteristics. The Kobe beef, famously luxurious and tender, comes from Tajima cattle. They are typically smaller and slower growing, but their meat quality is unmatched, making them highly valued for breeding.
Shimane: This line is known for its large body size and good meat quality, though it tends to have less marbling compared to Tajima. Shimane cattle are often used in crossbreeding to increase the size and weight of offspring while maintaining good meat quality.
Kedaka (or Tottori): Originating from the Tottori Prefecture, the Kedaka line is known for its size, strong frame, and good marbling. It is also praised for its excellent maternal traits, making it a preferred choice for breeding stock.
Fujiyoshi (or Shimane): This line is also known as the Okayama strain and is known for its good meat texture and quality. The cattle from this line are robust and have good fertility rates, making them suitable for harsher conditions.
Itozakura: Famous for its significant impact on the Japanese Black breed, the Itozakura line is highly regarded for improving body size and meat quality in its offspring. It is one of the top sire lines used in Wagyu breeding.

These lines have distinct characteristics that make them sought after for breeding purposes to achieve specific qualities in Wagyu beef, such as marbling, size, growth rate, and fertility. Breeders outside Japan, especially in the United States, Australia, and Canada, often utilize these genetics to produce high-quality Wagyu beef internationally. Plum Creek Wagyu's heard comes from these genetics.

Wagyu at Plum Creek Wagyu

At Plum Creek Wagyu, we leverage these global genetics to raise both Fullblood Wagyu and American Wagyu—the latter being a cross between Japanese Wagyu and high-quality breeds such as Angus. This practice allows us to offer a range of Wagyu beef products that suit various tastes and preferences, all while maintaining the high standards of fat marbling and meat quality that Wagyu is famous for.

The Science of Marbling

Marbling is not just about aesthetics; scientifically, the marbled fat in Wagyu beef has a lower melting point than that in other types of beef, which translates into a richer, buttery flavor when cooked. The genetics of Wagyu cattle make this extraordinary marbling possible, and it’s why Wagyu beef stands out in the global culinary scene.

Sustainability and Ethical Rearing

Beyond genetics, the method of raising Wagyu cattle plays a crucial role in the quality of the beef. At Plum Creek Wagyu, our cattle are raised with utmost care, adhering to strict ethical and environmental standards. This ensures not only the welfare of the cattle but also the sustainability of our farming practices.

Wagyu beef is a testament to how traditional practices can merge seamlessly with modern techniques to create a product that is valued globally. At Plum Creek Wagyu, we are proud to contribute to the diversity of the Wagyu industry, offering beef that is both luxurious and sustainably produced. Wagyu beef isn't just a product of Japan—it's a global delicacy that celebrates the best of what cattle can offer.

Experience the global excellence of Wagyu powered by Japanese genetics by trying our range of Fullblood and American Wagyu beef.