Shibanuma Yuzu Katsuo Ponzu Sauce

My Experience

It is a superb blend with the katsuo dashi pre-mixed, so there is no need to add extra flakes. The flavour is built on a rich and complex umami foundation that comes from a blend of both bonito (katsuo) and mackerel. The ingredients are indeed premium; the citrus note comes from real yuzu juice, not a generic flavouring, and a well-judged amount of sugar is used to balance and round out the stronger savoury and sour tastes.

As for the flavour, I was expecting a strong salty opener, but that is not the case. The taste is immediately a rich umami, with an underlying sweetness that provides balance from the very start. This then moves to the bright, aromatic yuzu flavour. The deep umami persists the entire time and lingers for a short while even after swallowing. The sauce is unbelievably moreish. I have already gone through half the bottle in three days, primarily as a dipping sauce. However, it is also highly versatile and would work brilliantly as a finishing drizzle over grilled fish, as a sharp dressing for salads, or as a quick marinade.

I initially thought the price was a bit high for a condiment. Having tried it, I can say it is worth every penny for an imported, premium yuzu ponzu of this quality.