The Bertam Smoke Haus championship team (l-r) Jason, Stan, Chris, Eric, Frank shown with their 1st place trophies atop the New Braunfels Longhorn Deluxe made by Char-Broil.

The boys from Bertram Smoke Haus in Bertram, Texas were understandably excited when I spoke to them the other day. After all they’d won first place in all three meat categories of chicken, pork ribs and brisket at a cook-off held the week before in Leander, Texas. “A sweep like this is quite an accomplishment.” according to Chris (center of photo). “I’ve been participating in barbecue cook-offs for years and never seen a team take 1st in every meat category.” Chris told me. I asked him what he attributed to their success and he replied, “Great Barbecue.” When I asked him about their championship equipment he said, “We wanted to produce the best product when competing in cook-off events and needed a smoker that would be up to the quality we achieve in the restaurant.” After a comprehensive review they made their choice: The New Braunfels Longhorn Deluxe made by Char-Broil. “We bought it on Wednesday and smoked it in for 24 hours before heading off to the event on Saturday. We love it. It’s pretty near perfect for what we are doin around here.” Chris said.