The “Red Eye” 4 Winery Old Mission Traverse City Early Wine Tour

Imagine waking up before dawn, slipping into a comfortable luxury SUV instead of a tired school bus, and heading straight into some of Michigan’s finest vineyards. That’s exactly what the “Red Eye” wine tour offers—an early start to visit four premier wineries on Old Mission Peninsula, all with the advantage of fewer crowds and more personalized attention. For $89 per person, you get about 4 to 5 hours of tasting, sightseeing, and enjoying the stunning views of Traverse City and Lake Michigan from a vantage point reserved for early risers and true wine enthusiasts.

What we love about this tour is the luxury transportation—no noisy, worn-out buses here. Instead, you’ll be comfortably riding in a GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, or Cadillac Escalade, with a knowledgeable guide at the wheel, making sure you get the most out of each stop. Plus, pickup and drop-off options in downtown Traverse City make it easy to fit into your itinerary. Another highlight? The flexibility to customize your winery list, giving you a more personalized experience than typical group tours.

The only consideration? The early start means a 5:00 or 6:00 AM pickup, which might be a challenge for late risers or those who prefer leisurely mornings. But if you’re a morning person—or want to beat the crowds—this tour is perfect. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or friends who appreciate quality over quantity and want a more intimate, relaxed wine adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travellers who value authentic wine experiences and want to avoid touristy crowds. If you’re craving stunning views and personalized attention while tasting some of Michigan’s best wines, and don’t mind an early start, then this VIP experience is right up your alley. It’s also a great choice if you prefer luxury over party buses, and want expert guidance from guides who are passionate about wine.

Key Points

• Luxury SUV Transport: Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles replacing noisy old buses, offering a more refined experience.
• Customizable Wineries: Flexibility to choose your preferred stops, with four wineries included in the standard tour.
• Early Start Advantage: Beat the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed tasting experience with spectacular views.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable wine lovers who provide personalized recommendations and insights.
• Group Size & Comfort: Usually 6-7 guests, ensuring a more intimate, less rushed atmosphere.
• Value for Price: At $89, including transportation and expert guidance, it offers great value for wine lovers seeking quality over quantity.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

How the Tour Starts and What You Can Expect

The tour begins bright and early, with pickup at 303 E State St in Traverse City. Expect a prompt start—most guests are sipping their first glass of wine by 10:10 AM. This early schedule is designed explicitly for those eager to beat the crowds and make the most of their morning.

Your guide, a friendly local with a passion for wine, takes the wheel of a luxury SUV. Unlike the typical “party buses” or old school shuttles, you’ll travel in style and comfort. The private nature of the vehicle means that most groups are limited to 6-7 guests, giving everyone space to relax and chat comfortably.

Wineries Visits & Highlights

The itinerary includes visits to four wineries on Old Mission Peninsula, chosen for their reputation, views, and wines. The stops are meticulously planned to give you ample time to sip, learn, and enjoy.

Hawthorne Vineyards

Your first stop, Hawthorne Vineyards, is celebrated as one of Traverse City’s best. Here, you can buy flights, wine by the glass, or bottles to enjoy on-site or take home. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it easy to indulge and ask questions about their wines.

“One of the best vineyards in Traverse City,” one review mentions, appreciating the opportunity to taste some of the best reds and whites in the region.

Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room

Perched atop a high point on Old Mission Peninsula, Chateau Chantal offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and Lake Michigan. Guests love strolling the grounds, buying a flight or bottle, and soaking in the scenery.

The view here truly enhances the tasting experience, making it more than just about wine—it’s about the visual feast too.

Bonobo Winery

Described as a place where “guests feel like Movie Stars,” Bonobo Winery stands out for its unique wines and lively atmosphere. The wines here are so impressive that visitors find themselves bragging about them long after the tour ends.

One guest raved about the wines that you just can’t wait to share, emphasizing the memorable flavors and the “feeling like a celebrity” ambiance.

Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery

Brys Estate consistently earns high marks, being one of Michigan’s top ten most popular wineries. Tour guests particularly love the “Froze'”, a signature drink that encapsulates what makes this winery special.

The estate’s picturesque setting and award-winning wines make it a favorite stop, offering a perfect blend of scenic beauty and wine excellence.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What sets this experience apart from other wine tours? Several factors:

• The luxury SUV transportation guarantees comfort and privacy.
• The early start allows you to enjoy stunning views and tastings before the crowds arrive.
• The flexibility to choose wineries you’re most interested in enhances the personalized vibe.
• The professional guides are passionate about wine, offering real recommendations and insights.

What Travelers Say

While the tour is relatively new and has no formal reviews yet, the descriptions and features suggest it will appeal strongly to those who appreciate thoughtful planning and high-quality service. The promise of stunning views and VIP treatment attracts travelers looking for a more refined, authentic experience.

The Value of the “Red Eye” Tour

Priced at $89 per person, this tour offers significant value considering the luxury transportation, expert guides, and four winery visits. The inclusion of a complimentary bottle of wine adds extra value, especially for those who want to take home a souvenir. Compared with other tours that might only visit three wineries or include larger, less personal groups, this experience emphasizes quality, comfort, and personalization.

It’s important to recognize that the early start is part of the value proposition—fewer crowds, more intimate tastings, and stunning vistas are what you gain.

Practical Tips

• Be prepared for an early morning—set your alarm and enjoy the peaceful start of the day.
• Dress comfortably but consider layers, as some wineries can be cooler or warmer depending on the season.
• Bring a valid ID for wine purchases or tastings.
• Talk to your guide about your wine preferences—this is a personalized experience.
• Plan your day after the tour accordingly, as you may be slightly “wine-energized” and want to relax afterward.

The Sum Up

The “Red Eye” 4 Winery Old Mission Traverse City Early Wine Tour offers a luxurious, personalized, and scenic way to explore Michigan’s wine country. Its early start allows you to enjoy stunning views and quiet wineries before the crowds arrive, making it ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate and relaxed tasting experience. The luxury SUV, professional guides, and flexible itinerary elevate this beyond typical group tours, offering great value for wine lovers who appreciate comfort and quality.

If you’re someone who values deliberate pacing, authentic experiences, and the chance to enjoy Traverse City’s vineyards without the crowds—this tour is a smart choice. Just remember, the early mornings may not be for everyone, but for those willing to rise early, the rewards are plenty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t like early mornings?
This tour starts early, usually with pickup around 5:00 or 6:00 AM. If you’re not a morning person, it might be a challenge, but if you’re eager to beat the crowds and enjoy peaceful wineries, it could still be worth it.

How many wineries are visited during the tour?
You will visit four wineries on Old Mission Peninsula. The itinerary is flexible, and you can let your guide know if you have specific favorites you want to include.

What kind of transportation is used?
The tour uses luxury SUVs like GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, or Cadillac Escalade. This provides comfort, air conditioning, and a more upscale experience compared to typical party buses.

Are food and wine purchases included?
No, tastings are included, but flights, bottles, and food are extra. Guests can buy wine at each winery, and some may wish to bring snacks or plan to eat afterward.

Can I choose which wineries to visit?
While the tour has a standard itinerary, it’s flexible—you can inform your guide of your preferred wineries, and they will do their best to accommodate your wishes.

Is there a group size limit?
Most groups are likely to have 6-7 guests, offering an intimate setting with personalized attention from your guides.

This tour combines the best of luxury, scenic beauty, and authentic wine tasting, making it a compelling choice for anyone wanting a special morning in Traverse City.