Andie’s NON BUS 4-winery Traverse Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour

Imagine leaving behind the crowded party buses and stepping into a luxury SUV with your own dedicated guides—welcome to Andie’s NON BUS 4-winery Traverse Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour. For $199 per person, you’ll spend around four and a half hours exploring four thoughtfully chosen wineries, all with the comfort of air-conditioning and the expertise of local wine connoisseurs. Guided by Andie, Tony, and Kyle, this tour promises a relaxed, VIP experience amid stunning scenery and stellar wines.

What we love most about this tour is its personalized approach—no rushing, no crowds, just a leisurely tasting journey with expert guides who genuinely know their wines. Plus, the luxury SUV transport makes all the difference, giving you ample space and comfort. Plus, the option to buy flights, by-the-glass wines, or bottles at each stop allows for a flexible, tailored experience.

A potential consideration is that food, additional tastings, or bottles are extra—so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge further. This tour suits travelers who appreciate quality over quantity, seek a less hurried, more intimate wine experience, and prefer guided transportation over dealing with the logistics themselves.

If you’re looking for a way to explore the Leelanau Peninsula’s wineries without the chaos of a large bus or the rush of a typical tour, this experience will resonate. It’s especially perfect for couples, small groups, or wine lovers who want to learn from experts while enjoying beautiful scenery.

Key Points

• Private and semi-private options offer a more intimate wine experience.
• Expert guides provide knowledgeable insights into each winery and wine type.
• Luxury SUV transportation ensures comfort and flexibility.
• Four carefully selected wineries highlight the diversity and quality of Leelanau wines.
• Included tastings allow a true appreciation of the local offerings.
• *Food and additional wine purchases are extra, providing flexibility for your preferences.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

A Fresh Alternative to Party Buses

This tour’s standout feature is its non-bus, VIP style. Rather than sharing a cramped, noisy vehicle with strangers, you’ll enjoy your journey in a luxury SUV like the GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, or soon, a Cadillac Escalade. This setup not only boosts comfort but also fosters a more relaxed atmosphere—perfect for small groups or couples wanting to savor the day at their own pace.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour hits four exceptional wineries, each with its own unique style and ambiance, and all within the scenic Leelanau Peninsula. The guides choose the wineries based on availability, weather, and special events—making each trip slightly different but consistently high quality.

Stop 1: Shady Lane Cellars
We loved the intimate setting at Shady Lane, a boutique winery producing just 7,000 cases annually. This farm-based operation offers a cozy outdoor patio overlooking vineyards and orchards—no busy roads, just tranquility. Here, you can buy flights, wine by the glass, or join the wine club. Their Blaufränkisch is a real highlight if you’re into reds, and the Muscat offers a taste from one of Europe’s earliest grapes.

Stop 2: Rove Winery at Gallagher Estate
Perched atop the highest point in the region, Rove Winery offers breathtaking views and a family-owned vibe. The guides do a good job highlighting how estate-grown grapes tell a story of the land. The wines here include the famed Fiona Runda blend and a rare Michigan-grown Sauvignon Blanc, along with a robust Cab Franc/Merlot blend. The setting alone makes this a memorable stop.

Stop 3: Black Star Farms Winery and Inn
A well-known name in the area, Black Star Farms combines scenic rural landscapes with a broad selection of wines and spirits. Since it’s been operating since 1998, it’s a spot that exudes experience and tradition. You’ll see why it’s considered a top destination for wine lovers wanting a taste of Northern Michigan’s diverse offerings.

Stop 4: Ciccone Vineyard & Winery
Founded in 1995 by Silvio Tony Ciccone, this family-run estate remains entirely estate-grown and family-made. The guides emphasize the hands-on approach—growing, crushing, barrel-aging, bottling—every step done on site. The setting includes charming hills, a barn, and a cozy house, making it feel authentic and welcoming.

What Makes This Tour Special

Unlike busy, rush-through tours, this experience is about deliberate, quality time. The guides’ knowledge enhances the visit, explaining each wine’s background and helping you understand what makes Leelanau wines unique. Reviewers have repeatedly praised the guides’ expertise, saying, “When in Rome, you must drink wine,” and that they appreciated letting someone else handle the driving in excellent weather.

Sample the Wines, Not the Crowds

The included tastings are a major advantage, offering a genuine chance to explore the region’s best reds and whites—like the Blaufränkisch, Muscat, Fiona Runda, and Cab Franc. You can also purchase flights or bottles if a particular wine catches your eye. Remember, food is not included, so consider bringing some snacks or planning a meal around your stops if you’re hungry.

The Value of Guided, Private-Style Tours

At $199, this tour offers a lot of value, especially when you consider the cost of tastings and transportation. The private SUV model means fewer people, more personalized attention, and a relaxed pace that allows you to savor each stop. The expert guides are well-versed in local wines and history, turning each tasting into a mini-lesson rather than a rush.

Considerations for Travelers

While this experience is fantastic, remember that additional purchases—like food or wine bottles—are extra. This allows flexibility but may be a surprise for some. Also, group sizes typically max out at 22, so it’s not entirely private but still intimate. The tour runs in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits small groups or couples who value comfort and knowledge over a large, rushed bus tour. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Michigan wines from local experts or those who simply want a more relaxed, scenic day without the stress of driving. If you like to explore at your own pace and enjoy good conversation amid beautiful landscapes, this is your ideal outing.

Final Thoughts

Andie’s NON BUS 4-winery Traverse Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour offers a premium, personalized way to experience one of Michigan’s most beautiful wine regions. The combination of expert guides, luxury transportation, and carefully selected wineries makes it stand out among typical wine tours. It strikes a fine balance between education, relaxation, and enjoyment, making it a worthwhile splurge for anyone wanting to savor the area’s best wines in style.

For those who prefer a more intimate, comfortable, and informative experience, this tour delivers on all counts. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just looking to enjoy some local flavors without the hassle, this tour is a well-crafted option that truly elevates your visit to Traverse City.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including time spent at each winery.

What is included in the price?
You get wine samples (flights or tastings) at four wineries, expert guides, and luxury SUV transportation. Food and additional bottles are extra.

Are the tastings free?
Yes, wine samples or splashes are included in the tour price. Flights, wine by the glass, or bottles are available for purchase.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Absolutely. Each stop offers the option to buy flights, wine by the glass, or bottles to take home.

Is this a private tour?
Not entirely private, but the SUV group sizes are usually 6-7 people, providing a semi-private, intimate experience.

What wineries are visited?
Stops include Shady Lane Cellars, Rove Winery at Gallagher Estate, Black Star Farms Winery, and Ciccone Vineyard & Winery.

What makes this tour different from others?
It’s a non-bus, VIP style experience with personalized guides, stunning scenery, and the flexibility to explore wineries at a relaxed pace.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, maybe a hat or sunglasses for outdoor stops, and some cash or card if you plan to buy wine or snacks.

Is transportation climate-controlled?
Yes, the luxury SUV is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort regardless of weather.

How do I book?
Advance bookings are recommended—most people book about 36 days ahead. You can reserve through the website or contact the tour provider directly.

Experience the beauty of Leelanau wines with a tour designed for comfort and learning, leaving the driving to the experts while you indulge in Michigan’s finest vintages.