Planning a day in Traverse City and eager to explore its renowned wine scene without the hassle of buses or rush? The NON BUS “Red Eye” Early Pickup Old Mission Wine Tour is a perfect fit. With a focus on comfort, personalized attention, and extraordinary wines, this 4.5-hour journey takes you in luxury GMC Yukons through the scenic vineyards of Old Mission Peninsula. Led by knowledgeable guides—like the friendly Mike—and featuring exclusive tastings, it’s a tailored experience designed for wine lovers seeking a more refined, relaxed approach than the usual bus tours.

The tour starts early, giving you the chance to beat the crowds and enjoy the quiet beauty of the region’s stunning views. What we love most is the personalized service and the chance to visit some of the most iconic wineries in the area—each with its own unique character. The flexible itinerary means you can tell your guide where you want to go, making this a truly customized experience.

One potential consideration is that the tour is slightly on the pricier side—though when you factor in the luxury transportation, expert guidance, and the premium tastings, it offers excellent value. It’s best suited for adults who appreciate fine wine, enjoy scenic drives, and prefer intimate, less hurried visits over large group bus tours. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a more personal way to explore Michigan’s wine country, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Key Points

Luxury Transportation: Travel in style in GMC Yukons and Cadillac Escalades, avoiding the typical bus experience.
Expert Guides: Led by knowledgeable wine connoisseurs who offer personalized recommendations.
Iconic Wineries: Visit four top wineries known for their reds, including Chateau Grand Traverse and Chateau Chantal.
Flexible Itinerary: Customize your stops and tour times, with optional sunset and distillery stops.
Intimate Experience: Small group setting ensures personalized attention and relaxed pace.
Spectacular Views: Enjoy scenic drives and stunning vistas of Old Mission Peninsula.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

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Starting Point and Pickup Options

The tour begins at the Hardy Street Parking Structure, next to Middlecoast Brewery, where you’ll find the luxurious GMC Yukons awaiting. If you’re staying downtown Traverse City, your guide will coordinate a pickup at other specified locations, making the process smooth. The meeting point is easy to find, with the guide reaching out beforehand to confirm details—no confusing bus depots here.

Why We Like the Personal Touch

The fact that this isn’t a big bus tour makes a real difference. You’re in a private or small group, which means more room, fewer distractions, and more chance to chat directly with your guide. The guides, like “Magic Mike”, aren’t just drivers—they’re wine experts eager to share their knowledge and tailored recommendations.

Wineries Visited and What to Expect

Chateau Grand Traverse is typically the first stop. Known as the first winery on the peninsula, it offers a broad and diverse wine menu. Here, you’ll sample a variety of reds and whites, tasting at your own pace in a beautiful setting. Travelers say the tasting here is “the best way to start the day” and appreciate the relaxed atmosphere.

Next, at Bowers Harbor Vineyards, you’ll explore their renowned Cab Franc. Reviewers mention the rich, full-bodied flavor of their reds and the friendly staff who are happy to discuss varietals. It’s a favorite for those who love a well-crafted, local red.

Chateau Chantal provides a different vibe, often described as “charming” with a scenic Inn and a lovely vineyard setting. Guests enjoy tasting their “Naughty or Nice” reds or Malbec, often remarking on the panoramic views that make the visit memorable.

The last winery, Bonobo Winery, is known for famous Cab Merlot and Pinot Noir, and offers the bonus of whiskey tastings and food pairing options, adding another layer to your experience. Reviewers love the variety and the chance to savor different styles of wine and spirits.

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Additional Wineries and Flexibility

The tour’s flexibility means your guide can include visits to other wineries like 2 Lads, Old Mission Distillers, or Mari Vineyards, depending on your preferences. If you’re interested in a sunset experience, that option is available, plus an optional distillery stop—perfect for those who want to extend their day or enjoy a more leisurely pace.

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The Experience in Action

We loved the way the luxury SUVs elevate the experience, providing comfort and a touch of elegance. The personalized guidance ensures you receive tailored recommendations rather than generic tastings. From the scenic drives along the peninsula to the insider tips about each winery, the tour balances sightseeing with wine education.

Some guests highlight the knowledgeable guides as a standout feature. One reviewer states, “Mike made us feel like we were old friends, sharing his favorite wines and stories.” The cozy group setting and expert guidance help make this more than just a wine tasting—it’s a curated journey through Michigan’s winemaking treasures.

Value and Cost

While the tour price is higher than bus-based options, the luxury vehicles, private guides, and exclusive tastings contribute to a top-tier experience. For wine enthusiasts wanting a more relaxed, intimate day with personalized attention, the value is clear. Plus, the flexibility to customize your stops and the inclusion of premium wines makes this a memorable and worthwhile splurge.

Additional Considerations

Since the tour is adult-only, it’s best suited for those over 21. If you’re traveling with a group celebrating a special occasion—like a birthday, anniversary, or bachelorette party—this tailored experience offers a sophisticated way to celebrate. The optional add-ons, like sunset views, make it adaptable for various preferences.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to travelers who appreciate comfort and personalized service over large group tours. It’s ideal if you’re serious about wine, enjoy scenic drives, and prefer a relaxed pace that allows you to savor each stop. The intimate setting and expert guides make it perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special milestone.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly, large-group experience, this might not be the best fit. But if your focus is on quality, comfort, and authenticity, this is an outstanding way to explore Michigan’s wine country.

FAQ

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, including visits to four wineries.

What is the starting point? The main pickup is at Hardy Street Parking Structure near Middlecoast Brewery, with other downtown pickups available depending on your arrangements.

Can I customize the itinerary? Yes, the tour is flexible—your guide can include other wineries or distillery stops based on your preferences.

What wineries are included? Typically, you’ll visit Chateau Grand Traverse, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, Chateau Chantal, and Bonobo Winery, among others.

Is transportation comfortable? Absolutely. You’ll travel in luxury GMC Yukons and Cadillac Escalades—plenty of space, plush seats, and a smooth ride.

What wineries are known for? Expect to sample reds such as Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Malbec, along with other varietals tailored to each vineyard’s specialties.

Are there any age restrictions? Yes, guests must be 21 or older to participate in wine tastings.

Can I join the tour on short notice? Availability varies, but you can often book last-minute if there’s space. It’s best to check ahead.

Is this a good value? When you consider the luxury transportation, expert guides, and exclusive tastings, many find it well worth the cost for a memorable, personalized experience.

What should I wear? Comfortable clothing suitable for a scenic drive and tasting. The tour runs rain or shine, so bring an umbrella if needed.

The “Red Eye” Early Pickup Old Mission Wine Tour offers a refined, relaxed way to explore Michigan’s acclaimed wine region. Traveling in luxury SUVs with knowledgeable guides ensures you get personalized attention, skip the crowds, and savor some of the best reds the area has to offer. The scenic drives, stunning vistas, and intimate winery visits make it perfect for wine lovers and those celebrating special occasions.

If you value comfort, authenticity, and expert guidance, this tour will delight you. It’s especially suited for small groups, couples, or anyone eager for a more personalized experience compared to standard bus tours.

For those wanting a day carefully curated around their tastes, with flexible scheduling and premium wines, this wine tour stands out as a top choice in Traverse City.