A significant change is set to come into effect at this year's National Cool Climate Wine Show in order to attract more tourists from outside the Bathurst region.
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The show, which will celebrate its 21st year this year, will be moving its public tasting session from Friday night to Saturday night.
National Cool Climate Wine Show chairperson Lee Baxter said the change of day will make things easier for visitors travelling to Bathurst.
"We're encouraging tourists to visit Bathurst for the weekend and not only participate in the public testing, but take in the beauty of the region," Ms Baxter said.
"The event will raise awareness of some of the finest cool climate wines in the country."
The show is run by the Bathurst Regional Vignerons Association, and gives local winemakers the chance to promote their products to other cool climate wine regions.
"We normally have anywhere between 800 to 1000 different wines entered each year," Ms Baxter said.
"The event has come a long way from its inaugural year in 1999, which saw around 70 wines featured."
In recent years, the wine industry has been hit hard by the drought that has been affecting much of the country.
Additionally, Ms Baxter said the lack of a clear succession plan for younger generations has caused problems for many wineries.
"Many couples have set up beautiful vineyards only to have their children show little interest in continuing the business," she said.
"It's one of the most controlled farming experiences out there, and younger people might not realise how rewarding it is to work in the wine industry."
With this year's show set to be held from October 15 to 19 at Panthers Bathurst, Ms Baxter is excited to see what winemakers bring to the table this year.
"At the end of the day, the event is about the appreciation of wine and trying new things," she said.
"The traditional wines will always be there, but there are plenty of innovative winemakers challenging the possibilities."
