NON BUS VIP Red Wine Lovers Old Mission Traverse Wine Tour

If you’re considering a wine adventure in Michigan’s beautiful Traverse City area, the Non Bus VIP Red Wine Lovers Old Mission Traverse Wine Tour offers something quite special. Instead of the usual noisy party bus, this tour provides a more refined, personalized experience riding in a luxury SUV, tasting some of the best reds the region has to offer. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, high-quality wine day with expert guidance and stunning scenery.

What we really love about this tour is the upscale vehicle experience — traveling in a GMC Yukon or Suburban feels much more exclusive and comfortable. The knowledgeable guides, like Magic Mike, make a real difference by offering expert recommendations and insightful commentary. Plus, the carefully curated stops at four iconic wineries ensure you sample top reds, from rich Cab Francs to smooth Malbecs.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is the price point—at $89 per person it’s not the cheapest option out there, but for the quality of the experience and personalized service, many find it worthwhile. It’s especially suited for wine lovers who prefer a more intimate, less crowded tour environment. If you want to avoid the hassle of big buses and enjoy a sophisticated day with flexible scheduling, this tour might be just what you’re after.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a day of tastings, this tour caters well to those who value comfort, expert guidance, and beautiful scenery. It’s a great choice for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a more private and curated wine experience.

Key Points

• Luxury Transportation: Travel in a GMC Yukon or Suburban for a comfortable, upscale experience.
• Expert Guides: Led by knowledgeable wine enthusiasts who provide personalized recommendations.
• Curated Winery Visits: Four iconic wineries, each known for their reds, with the option to customize picks.
• Flexible Scheduling: Departures at 10:30 AM or 3:30 PM to fit your plans, including a sunset option.
• Private and Small Groups: Most groups consist of 6-7 people, ensuring an intimate atmosphere.
• Special Perks: Groups of 6 or more receive a free bottle of wine; optional distillery stop for afternoon tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

When it comes to wine tours, the atmosphere can make or break the experience. This tour clearly leans into luxury and personalization. The vehicle itself — a sleek GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban — is a marked upgrade from typical party buses, offering a quieter, more refined environment. It’s air-conditioned and spacious enough to relax in while enjoying the scenery and conversations.

The meeting point on Hardy Street near Middlecoast Brewery is a solid choice. It keeps guests away from the chaos of less organized tours and ensures a smooth start. Plus, with pickup options from various downtown Traverse City locations, adjusting logistics is straightforward. The guides reach out prior to the day to coordinate, making the process hassle-free.

One of the highlights is the expert-guided tastings. The guides are described as knowledgeable, offering more than just a sip; they provide insights into each wine’s character and pairing suggestions. For example, at Hawthorne Vineyards, you might taste a rich Cab Franc and get a detailed explanation of what makes its flavor profile unique. Similarly, at Bowers Harbor Vineyards, guests enjoy blends like La Familia & 2896, with guides ready to make tailored recommendations.

Each winery visit is carefully selected based on availability, weather, season, and guest preference, which means your experience can be quite personalized. For instance, if you have favorite wineries or specific reds you’re eager to try, just let your guide know — the tour is flexible.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop

Hawthorne Vineyards: Known for its rich Cab Francs, the tasting here is a highlight. The winery’s setting offers scenic views, perfect for enjoying a glass while taking in the surroundings.

Bowers Harbor Vineyards: This stop is about savoring blends like La Familia and 2896. The guides often recommend wines based on your preferences, making this part of the experience educational as well as delicious.

Chateau Chantal: Famous for its Naughty or Nice Red and Malbec, Chateau Chantal provides an elegant backdrop to your tasting session. The wines are well-crafted, and the setting is picturesque.

Brys Estate & Bonobo Winery: Here, you’ll taste the renowned Cab Merlot, Cab Franc, and find options like BDX and OV Pinot Noir. The guides’ insights help you understand what makes these reds stand out.

The Value of a Curated, Private Experience

Compared to larger bus tours, the semi-private nature of this tour offers plenty of advantages. You won’t be stuck in a crowded environment, and the personalized recommendations from Magic Mike and the staff add a layer of expertise that enhances the entire outing. Many reviewers have praised the guides’ smooth explanations and friendly approach, making the experience feel more like a day out with friends than a structured tour.

The price of $89 per person may seem steep compared to standard bus tours, but consider what’s included: upscale transportation, expert guidance, visits to four wineries, and a relaxed atmosphere. Plus, groups of six or more receive a complimentary bottle of wine, adding extra value.

Practical Details and Tips

With a duration of 4.5 hours, the tour strikes a good balance between being thorough without feeling rushed. Whether you choose the morning departure to beat crowds or the sunset option for a more romantic vibe, you’re guaranteed a memorable day. You might also have the chance to visit an optional distillery during the afternoon tour if you’re interested in spirits as well.

Pack comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen — the outdoor vineyard walks can be sunny and warm. And don’t forget your camera, because the views are often striking. Guests are asked not to bring outside alcohol into the vehicle, so enjoy the tastings at each stop.

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What the Tour Isn’t

While the experience is indulgent and luxurious, it’s not particularly family-oriented. Children under 10 and pregnant women aren’t suitable for this tour, and it’s primarily designed for adult wine lovers. It’s also a wine-only experience, so don’t expect extensive food pairings included — snacks and food are available but at an extra cost.

Final Thoughts

This Non Bus VIP Red Wine Lovers Old Mission Traverse Wine Tour stands out with its focus on luxury, personalized service, and expert guidance. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a more refined, intimate wine tasting experience without sacrificing the fun of discovering Michigan reds. The premium vehicle and knowledgeable guides help elevate this beyond typical tours, making it feel more like a special day out rather than just a standard sightseeing trip.

If you value comfort, quality, and flexibility, this tour offers a compelling option. It’s ideal for couples celebrating something special, small groups, or anyone tired of crowded tour buses. The added touches — like the free bottle of wine for larger groups and the option to customize winery visits — make it stand apart.

In short, if you’re looking for a luxurious, guided wine day with scenic views and top-notch reds, this tour checks many boxes. Just come prepared for a day of enjoying good wine, great scenery, and expert insights — and leave the driving to your guides.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
No, the tour is designed for adults over 21 since it involves wine tastings. Children under 10 or pregnant women should avoid participating.

How many wineries will I visit?
The standard tour visits four wineries, each known for their reds. The sunset or afternoon tours might visit three wineries plus an optional distillery.

What is included in the price?
For $89 per person, you get luxury transportation in a GMC Yukon or Suburban, expert guides, and tastings at four wineries. Food and additional drinks are extra.

Can I customize the wineries I visit?
Yes, guides are flexible and will try to accommodate guest preferences if possible, especially if you have specific wineries on your wish list.

What time does the tour depart?
Tours depart at 10:30 AM or 3:30 PM, depending on your chosen schedule. The latter includes a sunset experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and your camera. Remember, outside alcohol isn’t allowed in the vehicle.

Is there a minimum group size?
Most groups seem to be around 6-7 people, ensuring a semi-private experience. Larger groups of 6 or more get a free bottle of wine.

Where do I meet the tour?
The main meeting point is the Hardy Street Parking Structure near Middlecoast Brewery, with pickup options elsewhere in downtown Traverse City.

Choosing this tour means opting for a relaxed, upscale wine adventure with knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. It’s a fantastic way to indulge your red wine passion and see Michigan’s finest vineyards in style.

You can check availability for your dates here: