NON BUS VIP Cadillac Escalade Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour

If you’re dreaming of a wine adventure in Michigan’s famed Traverse City area, you’ll want to hear about this VIP Cadillac Escalade wine tour offered by Movie Stars Wine Tours. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve spent enough time in wine country to know that a well-curated experience can make all the difference. This particular tour promises a luxury ride, expert guides, and a flexible, semi-private vibe—without the chaos of a party bus or the rush of a typical group outing.

What we love about it is the personalized, relaxed pace — no crowded buses or scheduled stops that feel hurried. Plus, the knowledgeable guides are a real highlight, making each winery visit more insightful and enjoyable. But, a potential consideration is that wines and food are extra, so while the tasting samples are included, you’ll want to budget for additional purchases if you’re planning to indulge.

This tour is best suited for wine lovers who value comfort and quality over sheer quantity, and for those who appreciate a more exclusive, intimate atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just wanting a taste of the local wine scene in style, this experience might be just right.

Key Points

• Luxury transportation in a Cadillac Escalade ensures a comfortable, stylish ride.
• Expert guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about the local wine scene.
• Semi-private experience with flexible stops, perfect for those seeking personalized attention.
• Included wine samples on the tour are a great way to taste a variety without extra cost.
• Stops at top wineries like Hawthorne Vineyards, Chateau Chantal, and Brys Estates showcase the best of Traverse City wine country.
• Price point of $119 per person offers good value for a luxury, guided experience.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike standard bus tours, this experience is tailored for comfort and exclusivity. The luxury SUV (or multiple vehicles for larger groups) means you won’t be cramped or rushed, and the pickup in downtown Traverse City makes meeting up simple. The tour’s flexibility is a big plus—if you have a favorite winery, the guides are happy to accommodate your wishes.

The guides, formerly law enforcement officers, are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and responsiveness. Guests often mention how their guides made the day enjoyable and informative, elevating the experience far beyond just tasting wine. This personal touch is what truly sets this apart.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour visits four wineries, each with its own unique flair and offerings. Here’s what you can anticipate at each stop:

Hawthorne Vineyards

This is often the first stop, and it’s considered one of the best vineyards in Traverse City. Guests love the opportunity to buy flights, wines by the glass, or bottles directly at the tasting room. It’s a solid introduction to the region’s reds and whites, with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning views. Visitors often mention the quality of the wines here is top-notch, and the free admission makes it a great starting point.

Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room

Perched atop one of the highest points on Old Mission Peninsula, this winery offers breathtaking panoramic views. It’s perfect for a leisurely tasting and photo ops. Guests rave about the incredible scenery and the chance to buy wines on site. The 50-minute stop allows enough time to soak in the vistas and sample some excellent wines.

Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery

A favorite among visitors, Brys Estates is known for being one of Michigan’s Top Ten wineries. The tour often includes a tasting of their famous reds and whites, and the experience is enhanced by the informative guides. Reviews mention that the wine quality and variety are impressive, and the setting is charming.

Bonobo Winery

Guests frequently describe Bonobo as a “place where you feel like movie stars” — a bit of a fun, lively vibe. The wines are described as “wines you can’t wait to brag about”, and the tasting experience is designed to be fun and memorable. You can purchase additional bottles or join the wine club if you wish.

Grand Traverse Bay & Bowers Harbor Vineyards

While the bay view isn’t a winery, it’s a stunning natural highlight of the region, perfect for some downtime and photos. Bowers Harbor, an original winery established in 1991, offers a glimpse into the area’s wine roots with a scenic setting. Guests often mention the history and charm of this stop, with options to buy wines directly from the vineyard.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes expert guides who are passionate about wine and share their knowledge at each stop, making it more than just a drive. The luxury vehicle (a Cadillac Escalade for groups up to 6, with additional vehicles like GMC Yukons for larger groups) helps create a comfortable, VIP atmosphere.

Wine samples are included; however, food, bottles, and flights are extra if you want to indulge further. It’s worth noting that no party buses or loud crowds are involved, making this a more refined and relaxed outing.

The complimentary bottle of wine for groups over 6 is a nice touch, adding to the VIP feel.

The Experience’s Practical Aspects

The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, which strikes a good balance between tasting and sightseeing without feeling rushed. The meeting point at 303 E State St in Traverse City makes logistics straightforward, especially if you’re staying downtown or nearby.

Booking in advance is encouraged—most trips are reserved about three weeks ahead, which indicates strong demand for this premium experience. The cost of $119 per person is quite reasonable when you consider the luxury transportation, guided service, and included tastings.

Authentic Guest Perspectives

Guests consistently praise the guides — “Mike is excellent and really provided the customer experience,” one reviewer notes. Several mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, which elevates the whole outing. Others emphasize the stunning views and quality wines, saying, “We loved the way the stops were paced” and “the wines were top-notch.”

The personalized experience is a common theme; many guests say they would definitely book again or recommend it to friends. The semi-private vibe allows for a more intimate, less commercial feel—something many travelers seek in a wine tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience works well for couples, small groups, or friends who want a comfortable, upscale way to explore Traverse City’s wineries. It’s ideal if you’re not into party buses or large, rushed tours and prefer a more relaxed, guided experience with knowledgeable hosts.

If you’re celebrating something special or simply appreciate first-class service and scenic views, this tour hits the mark. Keep in mind that additional costs for food and wine purchases mean you should budget accordingly.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the NON BUS VIP Cadillac Escalade Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour offers a balanced blend of luxury, flexibility, and expertise. It’s perfect for those who want to indulge in top-tier wines without sacrificing comfort or personal attention. The reviews sing high praise for guides like Mike, and the stops cover all the must-see wineries with stunning scenery.

If you’re looking for a more intimate, high-end wine experience that skips the chaos of the usual party bus, this tour could be just what you need. It’s a solid investment for wine enthusiasts who value quality over quantity and want the VIP treatment on their Traverse City trip.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes luxury transportation in a Cadillac Escalade, with pickups in downtown Traverse City. Larger groups might use additional vehicles like GMC Yukons.

Are wine samples included?
Yes, wine samples are included during the stops—flights, tastings, and splashes. Food and bottles are extra.

How many wineries will we visit?
The standard tour visits four wineries on Old Mission Peninsula, with options to customize or visit favorites if you have them.

What is the duration of the tour?
Expect about 4 to 5 hours from start to finish, including stops and travel time.

Can I bring my own food or buy wine?
You can purchase wines to take home or enjoy on-site; food is not included but can be bought at the wineries.

Is this tour family-friendly?
This experience is geared toward adults interested in wine. It’s not specifically designed for children.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less than that, and your payment is non-refundable.

How far in advance should I book?
Most tours are booked about 21 days ahead, so planning early ensures you get your preferred date.

This tour offers a relaxed, stylish way to enjoy Traverse City’s wine country. Whether you’re celebrating or just want a high-quality outing, it’s a dependable choice for a memorable day.