Marbling isn’t just for looks – it melts during cooking, making the meat juicy, tender, and rich in flavor. The higher the marbling score (like A5 in Japanese grading), the more luxurious the taste. Originally bred in Japan for working purposes, Wagyu cattle were later recognized for their meat quality. The name Wagyu Beef literally means “Japanese cow.” Today, Wagyu is also bred in the U.S., Australia, and other countries, though authentic Japanese Wagyu remains the gold standard.