Texas honey producers will have an opportunity to put their 2026 harvest to the test this fall as the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service of Austin County hosts a Black Jar Honey Contest.
The competition takes a different approach from honey contests where appearance can influence judging. In a Black Jar Honey Contest, honey is placed inside an opaque container that prevents judges from seeing its color. That means a light-colored honey and a dark amber honey enter the competition on equal visual footing.
Instead, the judging comes down to two things: flavor and aroma.
Contest Open to Honey Producers Across Texas
The Austin County contest is open to honey produced anywhere in Texas as long as it comes from the 2026 harvest. Each household may submit one entry consisting of at least 4 ounces of plain honey.
Honey delivered to the Austin County Extension Office will be transferred into the contest jar. Entries may also be submitted during meetings of the Central Texas Beekeepers Association or Colorado County Beekeepers Association, where the honey will be placed into an opaque jar.
The use of identical opaque containers allows judges to concentrate on the sensory qualities of each entry without being influenced by the natural differences in honey color.
Beekeeping Resources Available in the Region
Those interested in beekeeping don’t have to look far for opportunities to learn more.
The Central Texas Beekeepers Association provides educational opportunities for beekeepers ranging from beginners to those with years of experience. The organization also hosts an annual beekeeping school covering subjects such as beginning beekeeping, hive management, honey production, honey bee biology, pest management, Texas apiary laws and other topics.
Additional information and resources are also available through the Colorado County Beekeepers Association.
Entries Due Sept. 28
The deadline to enter the Black Jar Honey Contest is 9 a.m. Monday, Sept. 28.
Entries may be dropped off at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service of Austin County office at 800 E. Wendt St. in Bellville.
The top three entries will be selected based on flavor and aroma, with a certificate awarded to the winner. Participants who submit honey in their own jars may pick them up from Oct. 12 through Oct. 30. Any jars remaining after that date will be discarded.
Contest Information and Rules Available Online
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension has also posted information about the competition online, including the 2026 Honey Contest Rules and contest flyer.
Austin County AgriLife Black Jar Honey Contest information and rules
The AgriLife contest page lists Stacie Villarreal as the organizer and identifies the Austin County Extension Office in Bellville as the contest location.
For questions about entering, contact Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent Stacie Villarreal at 979-865-2072.
