NON BUS 4 Winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula

If you’re thinking about a wine-tasting adventure in Michigan’s renowned Traverse City area, this NON-BUS 4 Winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula might just be the experience you’re looking for. It’s a highly-rated, private-style tour that promises not just tastings, but a personalized journey through some of the best wineries with scenic views, expert guides, and a relaxed vibe—without the hassle of large party buses.

What really catches our eye about this tour is its luxury vehicle setup—think GMC Yukons and Cadillac Escalades—rather than the typical crowded buses. Plus, having real wine connoisseurs as guides, like Magic Mike, adds a layer of genuine expertise that many tours can’t match. And at just $68 per person, it feels like a pretty good value for a semi-private experience that lasts about four to five hours.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that this isn’t an all-you-can-drink party. It’s a more refined, educational, and scenic journey, with wine samples included but food and additional bottles at your own expense. This tour suits travelers who appreciate good wine, thoughtful guides, and a relaxed pace—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a personal touch without the chaos of big buses.

Key Points

• Semi-private luxury experience with GMC Yukons/Cadillac Escalades rather than buses.
• Expert guides who are passionate about wine and the local area, making the tour both fun and informative.
• Stunning views of Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay, adding a scenic backdrop to your tasting experience.
• Visit 4 iconic wineries, each offering unique wines, history, and ambiance.
• Included wine samples—but food, full tastings, and bottles are extra.
• Flexible itinerary with options for customization based on guest preferences and winery availability.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Hawthorne Vineyards

Our journey begins at Hawthorne Vineyards, one of the top-rated spots on the peninsula. What makes this stop memorable is the secluded location on a high bluff overlooking both East and West Grand Traverse Bays. You’ll love the chance to sip reds like Merlot and Cab Franc blends or whites such as Auxerrois and Dry Riesling. The option to buy wines by the glass or join their wine club adds a personal touch.

Plus, the tasting room’s setting—surrounded by nature, away from traffic and neighbors—is a real retreat. One guest noted, “The site is arguably the most secluded, with views of nature and vineyards, no traffic noise.” Expect about 50 minutes here, which is enough time to enjoy the wines and take in the view.

Stop 2: Bowers Harbor Vineyards

Next, we head to Bowers Harbor Vineyards, established in 1991 on a former horse farm. The warm, inviting atmosphere in the old horse stable tasting room is a highlight. They grow a variety of grapes, including Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Noir, and even bubbly Pinot Grigio called Pinot Secco.

Guests rave about the friendly staff and the unique wines, especially the Pinot Secco and Rose. One reviewer called it the “dog winery,” mentioning the friendly dogs that sometimes hang around—adding a cozy, family-like vibe. This stop also lasts about 50 minutes, giving plenty of time to sample and chat.

Stop 3: Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room

Perched atop one of the highest points on Old Mission Peninsula, Chateau Chantal offers incredible panoramic views of both arms of Grand Traverse Bay. It’s a favorite for many because of its specialty wines, especially the rare Ice Wine, which was even served at a White House dinner.

You’ll have about 50 minutes here to sample wines like Dry Riesling, Pinot Blanc, and Naughty Red. The ability to purchase a glass of Brandy is a unique feature, and their tasting menu is customizable. The scenic overlook makes it perfect for photos and a relaxed wine experience.

Stop 4: Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery

Brys Estate is one of Michigan’s top wineries, and its reputation is well-deserved. One of the most popular drinks here is the Froze’, a frozen wine slush that people rave about—ideal for hot days, which you might find on this tour.

Here, you can purchase the region’s only Sauvignon Blanc or try the unique Pinot Noir-Riesling blend called the “porch pounder.” The deck area provides a fantastic photo opportunity, and during summer months, the lawn bar opens, making it feel like a true outdoor retreat. Guests repeatedly mention how much they loved this stop.

Stop 5: Bonobo Winery

The final stop is Bonobo Winery, founded by locals Todd and Carter Oosterhouse. This winery stands out for its stunning views, excellent wines, and a touch of Hollywood charm. You’ll find reds like BDX and Pinot Noir, and whites such as Blanc de Blancs and top-tier Chardonnays.

Guests also appreciate the top-notch customer service, with one reviewer mentioning that their guide, Mike, made the experience feel very special—helping with wine choices, opening doors, and even offering to store bottles after the tour. The ability to sample whiskey here is a fun, unique bonus.

The Scenic Drive & Bay Views

Throughout the tour, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of Grand Traverse Bay, which has earned its reputation for crystal-clear waters and dramatic shoreline. Guests have shared how the drive along the shoreline and the views of the East Bay are simply unforgettable. The microclimate created by the surrounding bays also influences the variety of wines produced here, adding a special character to the region’s wines.

What We Love About This Tour

Personalized Experience: Unlike large party buses, this tour’s semi-private setup with luxury SUVs provides a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Guests repeatedly mention the attentive, knowledgeable guides—especially Magic Mike—who make the experience both educational and fun. Multiple reviews highlight how guides like Mike and Tony go above and beyond to ensure everyone feels comfortable and engaged.

Stunning Views and Scenic Drive: The views of Grand Traverse Bay, especially from Chateau Chantal and Hawthorne Vineyards, elevate the wine tasting. The drive along the shoreline offers excellent photo opportunities and a sense of place that makes the experience stand out.

Quality and Variety of Wineries: Visiting four iconic wineries means you get to sample a wide range of wines—reds, whites, bubbly, and even ice wine. The wineries are carefully selected for their unique character and offerings, making this more than just a tasting—it’s a journey through the region’s viticultural landscape.

The Value and Practicalities

At $68 per person, this tour offers solid value, considering it includes wine samples and a private, luxury vehicle. The guides’ expertise and scenic stops add significant value, turning what could be a simple tasting into a memorable day. Since food and full tastings are extra, you might want to budget additionally if you’re interested in a full meal or bottles.

The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours—long enough to enjoy several wineries without feeling rushed. The flexible itinerary means that if you have particular wineries you’d like to visit, your guide will do their best to accommodate. Plus, with pickup and drop-off at convenient downtown locations, it’s a straightforward experience.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Most groups consist of couples or small groups of 6-7, meaning you get that semi-private feel. The reviews suggest the group dynamic is friendly and engaging, with guests often mentioning how much they enjoyed the company and the guides’ personable approach.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers who want a personalized, scenic, and educational tasting day. It suits those who appreciate good company and want to avoid the chaos of big buses. The relaxed pace and expert guides make it ideal for couples celebrating special occasions, small groups of friends, or anyone keen to learn more about Michigan wines in a beautiful setting.

While not explicitly family-focused, the overall tone and pace make it suitable for travelers over 21 who enjoy a refined, scenic adventure. It isn’t designed as a party tour, so if you’re after a wild night, this might not be the right fit.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a luxury, semi-private wine experience in Traverse City, this tour delivers more than just wine-tasting. It’s about the views, the stories, and the personal attention. The guides, especially Magic Mike, bring a wealth of knowledge and a friendly vibe that elevates the day from a typical tasting to a true regional adventure.

The combination of stunning scenery, top wineries, and attentive service makes this tour stand out. The only real consideration is that food, full tastings, and bottles are extra—so plan for a modest additional budget if you want a full experience. For those who value comfort, education, and a personal touch, this is a really solid option.

FAQ

Is this a private or semi-private tour?
It’s primarily semi-private, often with groups of couples or small groups, and most likely with their own vehicle. Groups over 6 get a complimentary bottle of wine, adding to the personalized feel.

What vehicles are used for this tour?
Luxury GMC Yukons, Chevrolet Suburbans, or Cadillac Escalades. These aren’t buses—expect a comfortable, stylish ride.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4 to 5 hours, which allows enough time to visit four wineries, sample wines, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Are wine samples included?
Yes, wine samples or “splashes” are part of the tour. Tastings, bottles, and food are extra.

Can I customize the wineries I visit?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible. Your guide can accommodate preferences if winery availability and weather permit.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available at some downtown locations, making it convenient to start and end the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
No, it’s designed for adults 21 and over, given the wine tastings involved.

What’s the price for this tour?
It costs $68 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the quality, scenery, and personalized service.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and expertly guided wine tour that avoids the crowd and adds a touch of luxury, this Traverse City experience could be just what you need. Cheers to good wine, good views, and a memorable day on Old Mission Peninsula.