The former It's in the Bag host will be helping celebrate the twenty-fifth anniversary of commercial wine production in Central Otago with an "It's in the Bottle" tasting event today at 11am.
Mr Hawkesby, a wine grower, judge and reviewer, will host the event featuring six wines from Central Otago regions including Bannockburn, Alexandra and Bendigo. Event organiser Heather McPherson said the wines would be a mix of pinot noir, pinot gris and reisling.
An accompanying talk by Mr Hawkesby would outline the differences between the varieties.
Ms McPherson said those attending would learn about the sub-regional differences between Central Otago wines and why wine lovers around the world got passionate about the region's pinot noirs.
Several events will mark the 25th anniversary. This weekend there is also the Central Otago Winegrowers Association's annual Feraud dinner, which celebrates John Desire Feraud, who is credited with starting the region's viticultural history.
Ms McPherson said Mr Feraud, a Frenchman, moved to Central Otago in 1862 and two years later planted the first grape vines. He produced several varieties and went on to win international awards.
The spring release, or sneak preview of new wines for wine writers and critics, would also take place this weekend.
The next event is the Cromwell Invitational event to be held at Anderson Park on October 29.
Ms McPherson said the yearly event, which provides several rugby matches for entertainment, would this year include wine barrel races between wineries, celebrities and members of the public.
