Judges examine several criteria during the blind judging process: appearance, moisture, flavor and taste (the most critical of all of the criteria…the spices used should compliment rather than overpower the taste of the meat), smoke ring (the reddish-pink layer of smoke extending into the interior of the meat), tenderness, doneness (the meat should not lose textural integrity when pinched between two fingers, and should not fall off of the bone), and presentation. Professional judges in Texas always judge meats without using any additional sauce. Judging Texas barbecue is a privilege and a highly respected honor.