Post oak is the most common wood used for cooking and heat in Texas. It is not readily available in Houston but is everywhere in central Texas.  It has a mild flavor that does not overpower the meat, whether poultry, beef, or sausage.  This is a lighter, sweeter smoke that is suitable for long cooktimes.  Since post oak is mild and burns slightly slower than other woods it is also the most commonly used wood for fireplaces.  Post oak buts good bark on the meat without adding too much temperature. Post oak has mild vanilla flavors.  Post oak provides the baseline for comparing other woods.