The show, now in its third year, will run for three days, culminating in a public tasting on Saturday afternoon and an awards dinner later that night.

Organisers have secured one of Australia's most lauded winemakers as a judge.

Tim Kirk, who won the coverted Gourmet Traveller Winemaker of the Year title in 2013, will chair the judging panel which will assess a strong selection of wines.

Mr Kirk, from the celebrated Clonakilla Winery at Murrumbateman, near Canberra, was the toast of the industry when he was crowned Winemaker of the Year, after being a finalist twice previously.

The family vineyard is widely considered to be among the best in Australia.

Their 2009 Shiraz Viognier was named Wine of the Year by The Australian Wine Annual.

Mr Kirk will also run an exhibitor masterclass on Thursday afternoon.

Heathcote Winegrowers’ Association president Phil Meehan said Kirk was well credentialed to succeed Brian Walsh, now chairman of Australian Grape and Wine Authority, who had headed the judging panel for two years.

“Tim crafts fine reds, including shiraz, and will bring great insight to his new role at this showcase event in Australia’s exciting wine region renowned for full-bodied shiraz,” Mr Meehan said.

“Our entries have come from wineries in the Heathcote region together with other vignerons who either grow or source grapes from the region.

“Wineries and the industry itself view successes gained at the Saint Martin Heathcote Wine Show as a high achievement.”

Mr Meehan said judges would assess wines in varietal class.

A highlight will be the awarding of the Heathcote Grand Terroir trophy, with shiraz wines judged on quality, consistency and style.

Judging commences tomorrow.

Saturday's public tasting will be at the Heathcote RSL Hall.

The show is of two major wine events staged in Heathcote each year.

The Heathcote Wine and Food Festival, which attracts nearly 5000 people.