NON BUS Leelanau Winery Pairing with That’s a Pizza Food Tour

Traveling through Traverse City’s wine country can be a bit overwhelming—there are so many options, and choosing the right tour makes all the difference. That’s why I wanted to share a detailed look at the NON-BUS Leelanau Winery Pairing with That’s a Pizza Food Tour. While I haven’t personally taken this exact experience, I’ve researched it thoroughly, and it offers some truly promising highlights for those seeking a more personalized, luxury approach to wine tasting in Michigan’s picturesque Leelanau Peninsula.

What really caught my eye are the small-group, semi-private format in luxury SUVs—think of it as a more intimate, VIP experience rather than a crowded bus tour. Plus, the focus on expert guides who actually know their wines rather than just driving around is a refreshing change. Another convenient perk: finishing up with delicious local pizza at That’sa Pizza, a favorite spot in Traverse City, with options to be dropped off downtown or back at the meeting point.

Of course, there’s a price tag of $199 per person, which isn’t cheap but aligns with the luxury and personalized service offered. One thing to keep in mind: tastings, wines, and food are extra, so if you’re on a tight budget, you’ll want to plan accordingly. Still, for wine lovers craving a more refined experience, this tour might be well worth considering.

This experience is best suited for those wanting a relaxed, upscale way to explore several wineries without the stress of driving. It’s perfect if you prefer knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and a touch of celebrity-level treatment. But if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more budget-friendly, casual outing, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Intimate, semi-private format offers a more personalized experience than standard bus tours.
• Expert guides provide real wine recommendations, not just transportation.
• Luxury SUVs ensure comfort and style, with the added bonus of scenic views.
• Visit three quality wineries, sampling reds, whites, and specialty blends.
• Finish at That’sa Pizza North Long Lake for great local food and an easy way to continue the fun.
• Drop-off options include downtown Traverse City or the original meeting point.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Unique Experience of a Non-Bus Tour

Unlike typical large-group bus tours, this experience keeps the group small—most likely 6-7 people per SUV—making for a much more relaxed, social vibe. This setup allows guides to tailor recommendations more precisely to your tastes. Imagine sharing the backseat with just a handful of fellow wine enthusiasts, all while enjoying the scenic drive through Leelanau’s rolling vineyards and orchards.

The luxury SUVs—like GMC Yukons or Chevrolet Suburbans, with a possible upgrade to Cadillac Escalade—offer a comfortable ride that’s a step above the usual bus. This matters because it elevates the entire experience, allowing you to relax and truly enjoy the views during the drive.

The Wineries – Highlights and What to Expect

Shady Lane Cellars

This first stop sets the tone. As one of the best vineyards on Leelanau, Shady Lane is a boutique winery producing only about 7,000 cases annually. The guides emphasize its charm: “You can buy flights, wine by the glass, bottles, or join the wine club.” Expect to taste some of the best reds and whites in the area—a must if you appreciate reds, especially the Blaufränkisch, which is quite special. For white wine lovers, a Muscat and Coup de Blanc are on offer, with the Muscat being the first grape brought to Europe by Romans—a neat tidbit for those interested in history and wine.

Visitors report that Shady Lane is ideal for appreciating the natural surroundings, as it boasts views of vineyards and orchards. The fact that it’s a smaller, boutique winery means you won’t get overwhelmed but will enjoy a more personal tasting.

Rove Winery at Gallagher Estate

Next, the tour heads to Rove Winery, perched on the highest point of the Leelanau Peninsula. This spot offers breathtaking panoramic views. The winery’s focus on estate-grown grapes and Irish heritage adds a layer of story and authenticity, making it more than just a tasting stop.

Wine options here include the Fiona Runda, a blend of Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc, and a rare Michigan-grown Sauvignon Blanc. Red wine fans aren’t forgotten—there’s a Cab Franc/Merlot blend that’s highly regarded. The guides’ knowledge shines here, as they often highlight the nuances of each wine, helping us understand why these particular blends stand out.

That’sa Pizza North Long Lake

The final tasting stop is at That’sa Pizza, a local favorite for authentic, locally sourced pizza. You can order to-go or dine there, but the real perk is the convenience—after a day of wine tasting, you’re close to downtown Traverse City, where you can keep the party going at local bars or cafes. The two-hour window here gives you time to relax, grab a slice, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Additional Stops & Weather Considerations

Depending on the weather and availability, the tour might include a visit to Ciccone Farms, Sutton’s Bay Ciders, or Brengman Brothers. This flexibility lets guides adapt to seasonal changes, which is great because it means the experience remains fresh and engaging year-round.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers a luxury SUV, expert guides, and the wine tastings at the three wineries. However, food, additional wines, bottles, or glasses are extra. We think this setup works well if you plan to budget for some extra beverages or snacks, as it allows flexibility and control over what you spend.

The tour is law enforcement, first responder, and military friendly, which adds a layer of comfort for guests from these backgrounds. It’s also worth noting that most travelers can participate, and the tour is capped at 12 people, ensuring a relatively intimate experience.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

• The meeting point is at 3860 N Long Lake Rd in Traverse City. You can be dropped back here or in downtown Traverse City.
• Confirmation is immediate when booking, and free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand makes it flexible if plans change.
• The tour lasts around 4 to 5 hours, giving plenty of time to savor wines and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers wanting a high-end, relaxed taste of Leelanau without the hassle of driving. If you’re looking for guides who really know their wines and can make personalized recommendations, this is a winner. It’s also suited for those who appreciate scenic drives in comfortable vehicles and want to finish their day with some of the best local pizza.

While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the focus on wine tastings and the small-group setting suggests it’s more suitable for adults. If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even a small, mature group, this will suit you well.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a more intimate, VIP-style tour that combines expert guidance, scenic drives, and quality wineries, this Leelanau experience checks many boxes. It’s a great way to explore the region’s wine offerings without the stress of navigating on your own or sharing space with dozens of strangers.

The focus on knowledgeable guides makes a real difference—these aren’t just drivers, but passionate wine enthusiasts eager to share their expertise. The luxury SUV transport adds comfort and style, making the whole journey feel special. Plus, finishing with a beloved pizza spot helps create a memorable, full-day adventure.

This tour will appeal most to those who value quality over quantity, want a touch of luxury, and love discovering local gems in a relaxed setting. If that sounds like your kind of day, it could be just the experience you’re looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the tour?
It’s $199 per person, which reflects the small-group, luxury SUV format, and personalized guide service. Keep in mind that tastings, wines, and food are additional costs.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 4 to 5 hours, giving plenty of time at each stop and for the scenic drive.

Are the wine tastings included?
Tastings and wine samples are included in the experience, but additional purchases like bottles or glasses are extra.

What vehicles are used?
Luxury SUVs—such as GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, or Cadillac Escalade—offer a comfortable ride with excellent views.

Can I be dropped off downtown?
Yes, after the tour, you can be dropped off at downtown Traverse City or the original meeting point.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s designed for adults interested in wine and scenic drives. The focus on wine tasting suggests it’s best suited for mature travelers.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The additional stop might change depending on weather and availability, with options like Ciccone Farms or Sutton’s Bay Ciders.

Is the tour private?
While not entirely private, the small group size means it’s more personalized than larger bus tours.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

In all, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated, relaxed way to enjoy Leelanau Wine Country with a touch of luxury. If you love discovering new wines, appreciate scenic drives, and want the comfort of expert guides and stylish vehicles, it’s definitely worth considering.