The first vintage from Douglas Vale resulted from Isabella vines in 1867.

Douglas Vale Historic and Vineyard functions coordinator Kay Morrison said the vine has been able to continue to grow strongly due to conservation efforts. 

Throughout the years the homestead and outbuildings have been restored, the grounds cleared and a small part of the original vineyard has been replanted. 

The vineyard was first established in 1859 by the Francis family from England.

The three hectare site is classified by the National Trust and is a listed local Heritage site under the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.

The open day will coincide with Heritage Week which begins on April 21 and runs until April 28.

Ms Morrison said the vineyard remains the best kept secret on the north coast. 

She said a lot of people who have never been to the location walk in and say “we saw the sign but we never knew this was here”. 

“They come in and they go away amazed because there is so much history here,” she said. 

Ms Morrison said the open day provides people with the perfect opportunity to learn about the thriving wine-making industry history of the Hastings.  

Douglas Vale was one of the largest of 46 vineyards in the Hastings in 1898.

A live performance at the open day will give a historical account of ‘The Story of Douglas Vale’.

The vineyard and museum is completely run by volunteers.

All funds raised from the open day will be used for continuing restoration efforts and maintenance of the property. 

The event is on from 9.30am until 3pm and entry is by gold coin donation.

Music entertainment, a variety of stalls, heritage craft displays, fire trucks and vintage cars will be present at the event. 

There will be Devonshire teas and a barbecue. 

Wine tastings and tours of the homestead will also be available. 

For more information or to enquire about volunteering people can email rmorrison4@bigpond.com