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

Experience a premium, personalized wine tour on Old Mission Peninsula with the NON BUS 4 Winery Traverse City Wine Tour. For $68 per person, you’ll spend about 4 to 5 hours exploring four carefully selected wineries in stylish GMC Yukons, all in a semi-private setting. Unlike traditional party buses or overcrowded shuttles, this tour offers a relaxed, more intimate experience with knowledgeable guides, breathtaking scenery, and a genuine focus on quality wine tasting.

One of the best parts? You won’t be crammed into a noisy bus. Instead, you’ll enjoy the comfort of a luxurious SUV, with plenty of room to relax and take in the view. Two things we especially love are the flexibility to choose your wineries (or go with the recommended list), and the personal service from guides who are true wine enthusiasts. A potential consideration is that food, tastings, and bottles are extra — so budget accordingly if you want a full gastronomic experience.

This tour is perfect for anyone who appreciates well-curated wine experiences, loves scenic drives, or prefers a more relaxed, semi-private setting over the crowded bus scene. If you like knowledgeable guides who share insider tips, and enjoy stopping at scenic spots for photos or a quick walk, this will likely be your favorite way to explore Traverse City’s wine country.

Key Points

• Luxury Transportation: Travel in GMC Yukons or similar SUVs for comfort and style.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Mike or Tracy add value with their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Flexible Itinerary: Visit four wineries, with the ability to customize your stops based on preference or schedule.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy drives along shoreline roads with vistas of Grand Traverse Bay and Old Mission Peninsula.
• Quality Wines: Sample a wide range of reds, whites, and specialty wines, including rare varieties like Ice Wine.
• Authentic Experience: Skip the party bus — this is a semi-private, relaxed, and genuine wine tasting adventure.

A Detailed Look at the Traverse City Wine Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

From the moment you meet at 303 E State St in Traverse City, you’ll notice this is not a typical bus tour. The fleet of luxury GMC Yukons and Chevrolet Suburbans immediately signals comfort and class. The vehicle’s air conditioning and spacious interior are designed for a pleasant ride, especially on warm days when scenic drives can be a highlight in themselves.

This is a semi-private experience, usually combining a couple of couples or small groups, with most groups of 6-7 having their own vehicle. The guides, often U of Michigan or MSU grads, are friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about the wine region, making the journey as engaging as the stops.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Hawthorne Vineyards

The tour kicks off at Hawthorne Vineyards, a newer, secluded spot perched on a high bluff offering sweeping views of East and West Grand Traverse Bays. It’s an ideal first stop because of its peaceful setting and focus on both reds and whites like Merlot/Cab Franc blends, Auxerrois, or Dry Riesling. Guests can buy wines by the glass, flight, or bottles and even join the wine club if they wish.

Guests consistently praise Hawthorne for its tranquility and stunning natural surroundings, with one reviewer noting, “Our visitors will be seeing nature, no traffic, no neighbors — just vineyard and woods.” The addition of snacks like popcorn flights or charcuterie boards adds a nice touch, making it more than just a tasting stop.

Stop 2: Bowers Harbor Vineyards

Next, the journey takes you to Bowers Harbor Vineyards, one of the original wineries established in 1991, in an inviting converted horse stable. It’s a lively spot with a friendly staff and a wide variety of wines, including Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Noir, and the standout Pinot Secco bubbly, along with a unique Pinot Secco Rose.

Reviewers love Bowers Harbor as a “dog winery,” where you might see friendly pups wandering around, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. The choice of wines offers something for all, especially white wine lovers. Many appreciate the approachable yet quality-driven selection, noting “the wines are top-notch and the staff very friendly.”

Stop 3: Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room

Perched atop one of the highest points on the peninsula, Chateau Chantal boasts astonishing panoramic views of both bay arms. It’s here you’ll find the rare and celebrated Ice Wine, a true gem that even made a White House dinner appearance during President Obama’s time — a detail that excites wine connoisseurs.

This stop is as much about the scenery as it is about the wines, with guests able to customize flights featuring dry Riesling, Pinot Blanc, or the popular Naughty Red. Chateau Chantal is also the only winery on Old Mission Peninsula where you can purchase a glass of Brandy, which adds an extra layer of interest for those who enjoy spirits.

Stop 4: Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery

Brys Estate is a favorite among many guests, thanks to its inviting outdoor lawn bar and a signature frozen wine drink called “Froze’.” It’s a refreshing treat on a warm day, with options for various toppers, especially the Red Topper version.

Guests praise Brys for its laid-back vibe and great photo opportunities, especially on the deck overlooking the vineyard. The winery also offers the only Sauvignon Blanc on the peninsula and a delightful Pinot Noir-Riesling blend, making it a well-rounded stop for varietal lovers.

Bonus: Bonobo Winery

The tour wraps up at Bonobo Winery, founded by local brothers and TV personality Carter Oosterhouse. Known for their exceptional reds like BDX and top-tier Pinot Noir, as well as bubbly and Chardonnay, Bonobo delivers a lively atmosphere.

Reviews highlight the customer service here, with guests mentioning the “movie star vibe,” and that they could sample a glass of whiskey — a rare treat on the peninsula. The option to indulge in expert-level charcuterie and specialty drinks make it a memorable finish.

Scenic Drives and Views

Throughout the tour, your guides will point out key sights like Bowers Harbor Inn, The Boathouse Restaurant, and Bryant Park, all along scenic shoreline roads. The views of Grand Traverse Bay are consistently praised, especially during the drive from Traverse City to Hawthorne, where guests get a glimpse of the bay’s beauty and learn about the local microclimate that makes this region so suitable for diverse wines.

The Experience and Value

This isn’t just about tasting wine; it’s about enjoying an authentic, relaxed experience with guides who truly know their stuff. The reviews repeatedly mention knowledgeable guides like Mike and Tracy, who go out of their way to enhance the experience — from singing along to music requests to offering insider facts about the region.

The $68 price includes the luxury transportation, expert guiding, and multiple tastings, which many guests find to be excellent value, considering the quality of wines and scenery. Food and additional bottles are extra, but this allows you to tailor your experience or indulge on your own terms.

Considerations

While the tour is exceptionally well-reviewed, keep in mind that tastings and food are not included in the price. Also, the tour can be booked 29 days in advance, so planning ahead is advisable. For those who prefer a fully guided, structured experience with meals included, this might feel slightly flexible, but that’s part of the appeal for many travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you appreciate a relaxed, semi-private atmosphere, high-quality wine tasting, and stunning bay views, this tour is a no-brainer. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or wine enthusiasts who want expert insights without the crowded bus vibe. Nature lovers will also enjoy the peaceful vineyard locations and scenic drives.

Travelers who value personalized service and the opportunity to buy wines directly from the vineyard will find this especially appealing. It’s perfect for those who want a laid-back, authentic experience that emphasizes quality over quantity and scenery over crowds.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes. While it’s primarily designed for adults enjoying wine, there are no restrictions on age, but tastings are for those over 21.

Are food and bottles included in the price?
No, tastings, food, and bottles are extra. You can purchase wines at each winery or bring snacks to enjoy along the way.

How many wineries are visited during the tour?
Typically, four wineries are included, with the possibility to customize based on preference and availability.

What type of vehicle is used?
Luxury GMC Yukons, Chevrolet Suburbans, or Escalades, offering a comfortable, upscale ride.

Is this a private or semi-private tour?
Most groups of 6-7 have their own vehicle, making it semi-private, but small groups of couples might join others.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4 to 5 hours from start to finish.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Are tips included?
Tips are not included but are customary if you feel the guide provided exceptional service.

Is there a specific dress code?
Casual, comfortable clothing is fine. Bring layers if needed, as some wineries may be cooler or warmer depending on the weather.

Can I request specific wineries?
Yes, you can let your guide know your preferences, and the itinerary may be adjusted accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This NON BUS 4 Winery Traverse City Wine Tour offers a thoughtfully curated, intimate look at Old Mission Peninsula’s wine scene. The combination of luxury transportation, expert guides, and scenic drives makes it stand out from more traditional, large-group tours. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and quality wines, making it clear that this is a top-tier experience.

It’s an excellent choice for those who want to explore the region at a relaxed pace, enjoy personalized service, and indulge in some of Michigan’s finest wines without the chaos of crowded buses. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just looking for a memorable day in Traverse City, this tour promises a mix of education, scenery, and excellent wine.

For travelers who value comfort, authenticity, and expert guidance, this is a tour that will leave you with great memories and perhaps a few bottles to take home.