Head judge of the awards Rod McDonald, who is also Hawke's Bay Wine Company chief winemaker, said he was excited to see this years' entries.
"We're expecting big things as the region has enjoyed two exceptional vintages in a row."
Two international judges would join the awards, which would give the competition an international context, Mr McDonald said.
Hawke's Bay A&P Bayleys Wine Awards committee chairman Max Morton said the region's winemakers were reaching new heights.
"The seasons have been kind to us.
"In the last 14 years, the wines have started to mature. The viticulturists are getting better, hence the wines are getting better.
"I think Hawke's Bay is evolving. We've got more international wines every year - across the range."
Hawke's Bay A&P Society chairman Richard Chambers said the awards showcased the region's wine industry.
"This competition highlights what a huge industry Hawke's Bay has from the grapes right through to the bottle."
Hawke's Bay A&P Society business development manager Hillary Riches said the purpose of last night's launch was to acknowledge and thank sponsors of the competition.
Guests included Hawke's Bay Regional Council chairman Fenton Wilson and Napier Deputy Mayor Faye White.
This years' entries will be judged at Eastern Institute of Technology, Napier, in September.
Winners will be announced at a Gala Awards dinner on the October 21 at Waikoko Gardens, Showgrounds Hawke's Bay.
For more information, visit hawkesbaywineawards.co.nz
See more photos from the event here.