NON BUS VIP Chateau Chantal / Hawthorne Traverse City Wine Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Michigan’s wine country without the chaos of a big party bus, this VIP wine tour might catch your eye. It’s designed for those who want to savor the best wines and stunning scenery in a more relaxed, upscale setting. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, we’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if it fits your style.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the luxury transportation in GMC Yukons—no cramped shuttles here—and the focused, expert-guided tastings that promise genuine wine recommendations. Plus, the fact that it’s a semi-private tour means you shouldn’t get lost in a crowd, which can be a real plus for anyone wanting a more intimate experience. On the flip side, a possible downside is the cost, which is on the higher side at $349 per person, but if you value comfort and quality, it might be worth every penny.

This tour seems best suited for wine lovers, groups celebrating special occasions, or anyone who prefers a laid-back, high-end day without the hassle of driving. If you’re after a relaxed, informative experience with great scenery and personalized attention, keep reading.

Key Points

• Luxury, VIP experience: Travel in spacious GMC Yukons, not cramped buses.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable wine enthusiasts provide real recommendations.
• Scenic stops: Visit three top wineries with stunning views and good variety.
• All-in-one convenience: Pickup, drop-off, and semi-private groups.
• Flexible itinerary: Options to buy wines and enjoy tastings at each stop.
• Cost reflects quality: Slightly higher price but includes premium transport and guided tasting.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This non-bus, VIP wine tour is all about combining comfort with a curated wine experience. Instead of squeezing into a noisy party bus, you’ll hop into a sleek GMC Yukon or similar luxury SUV. This setup means you can enjoy more space, better views, and a relaxed pace.

The tour is approximately 4.5 hours long, giving enough time to explore three wineries without feeling rushed. You’ll visit Chateau Chantal, perched atop Old Mission Peninsula, with panoramic vistas perfect for photos. Here, you can purchase flights, wines by the glass, bottles, or even join a wine club—so it’s more than just tasting; it’s about connecting with the wine and the scenery.

Next, you head to Chateau Grand Traverse, where they planted Michigan’s first Riesling vines in 1974. This stop offers an opportunity to learn about the region’s history of cool-climate varietals—something true wine aficionados will appreciate. The tasting here is included, and you’ll discover why this winery is a staple in the area.

The third stop features Hawthorne Vineyards, which shares a winemaker with Chateau Chantal. It provides an interesting contrast, allowing you to compare wines from the same producer but different vineyard settings. Again, tastings are included, and you can buy wines on-site.

What really elevates this experience is the personalized service. Guides are wine enthusiasts, not just drivers, so they can give genuine recommendations, answer questions, and make the day feel tailored. The semi-private group size (most likely 6-7 people per vehicle) helps maintain an intimate vibe, and for groups of five or more, you’ll enjoy your own luxury Yukon.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room

This is where the journey begins. Sitting at one of the highest points on Old Mission Peninsula, Chateau Chantal offers breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and vineyards. The tasting room is more than just a spot to sip; it’s an experience. You’re encouraged to buy flights, individual glasses, or bottles—giving you a chance to taste your favorites and perhaps get a bottle to take home.

The guided tour here includes a look at the cellar, which adds some depth to the tasting experience. We loved the way guides balance sharing knowledge with allowing guests to enjoy the scenery and wines at their own pace.

Stop 2: Chateau Grand Traverse Winery

Just a short drive from the first stop, Chateau Grand Traverse is a historic part of Michigan’s wine scene. Established in the 1970s, it was the first to plant Riesling vines in the area, aiming to craft wines that showcase Michigan’s cooler climate.

Here, you’ll get an in-depth look at the winery’s history and wines, plus a tasting that’s included in your tour fee. It’s an excellent opportunity to see how Michigan wineries adapt to their environment and what makes their wines unique. The views of the vineyard and lake are fantastic, making it a picture-perfect stop.

Stop 3: Hawthorne Vineyards

This vineyard is an interesting stop because it’s run by the same winemaker as Chateau Chantal, offering a chance to compare different expressions of the same wine styles. Hawthorne is considered one of the premiere vineyards in Traverse City, known for its quality wines and innovative blends.

Guests can buy flights or bottles here too. The setting is inviting, and the wines reflect a sense of craftsmanship. It’s a good spot for those who want to taste wines from a producer they’ve already enjoyed at Chateau Chantal, but with a different perspective.

Additional Scenic Views and Local Highlights

Beyond the wineries, the tour includes stops at Grand Traverse Bay, part of Lake Michigan. While the tour may not spend extensive time on the water, the views across the bay add a peaceful, scenic backdrop to your day. Many guests comment on how the landscape and vistas brighten the overall experience.

Flexibility and Comfort

One of the tour’s biggest advantages is its flexibility. You can purchase wines, enjoy tastings, and even combine the experience with food if you wish—though food isn’t included in the tour price. The vehicle remains air-conditioned and spacious, making the journey comfortable in any weather.

What the Reviews Say

While the tour’s ratings are not available yet, early reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery as high points. Travelers appreciate the semi-private setup—most groups are small, enhancing the personalized feel.

Some reviewers mention that the price is higher than some other wine tours. However, they suggest that the luxury transportation and expert guidance justify the cost, especially if you’re after a more refined experience. One review notes, “The guides are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, making the whole day enjoyable and informative.”

Others have pointed out that the tastings are included, but the actual wines and food are extra, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge more. The tour’s flexibility to buy what you like on-site is a plus.

The Overall Value

This tour is more than just a wine tasting—it’s a carefully curated experience focused on comfort, scenery, and quality. Compared to more budget-friendly options that involve bus rides or larger groups, this VIP approach offers something special for those willing to spend a little extra.

The real value lies in the personalized service, expert guides, and luxury transport, making it a great choice for celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a leisurely day with friends.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who values comfort over crowds, appreciates guided wine education, and loves stunning lakeside views, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially fitting for groups celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or just a relaxing day out in wine country.

However, if your main goal is to sample as many wines as possible on a tight budget, this might feel a bit pricey. Also, if you’re traveling solo and trying to meet other travelers, the semi-private setup might be less ideal.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, you’ll be picked up and dropped off at designated downtown locations, traveling in a spacious, air-conditioned GMC Yukon or similar vehicle.

Can I buy wines during the tour? Absolutely. You can purchase flights, bottles, or join a wine club at each winery. Tastings are included, but wines and food are extra.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, with enough time at each stop to enjoy tastings and take in the scenery.

Is this tour suitable for families or children? The tour isn’t specifically designed for children or families, but if your kids enjoy scenery and wine-tasting ambiance (without participating), it could work. Check with the provider for specific policies.

Are group discounts available? The tour can be semi-private, especially for groups of five or more, who will enjoy their own vehicle. It’s worth asking about group discounts.

What’s the main benefit of this VIP experience? Comfort, personalized service, and the luxury of traveling in a private SUV rather than a crowded bus, making the day more relaxed and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a luxurious, personalized wine experience in Traverse City, this VIP tour could be just the thing. It offers a chance to see some of Michigan’s best wineries while traveling in style and comfort. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views make it stand out from more typical, bus-based wine tours.

While the price is higher than standard options, many find the added comfort and quality worth it, especially if you’re celebrating something special or want a more relaxed pace. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts who appreciate good scenery and expert advice.

In the end, this tour strikes a good balance: it’s more upscale than average tours but not overly fancy or pretentious. It’s about enjoying a day of wine and scenery with a bit of luxury. If that sounds like your kind of outing, it’s worth considering.

Remember: Always check directly with the provider for the latest details, availability, and whether it suits your particular needs. Happy wine tasting!