NON BUS Traverse City: Champagne-Style Bubbly & Wine Tour

Imagine cruising through Michigan’s famed Old Mission Peninsula in a sleek GMC Yukon, not on a noisy bus filled with strangers, but in your own private luxury vehicle. For $89 a person, this 4.5-hour wine adventure offers an intimate look at four of the region’s top wineries, each celebrated for their Champagne-style bubbly and crisp wines. Guided by actual wine connoisseurs—led by the charismatic Magic Mike—you’ll enjoy expert-guided tastings paired with stunning views of vineyards and Lake Michigan.

What we love about this experience is the focus on quality over quantity: no crowded buses here, just a relaxed, upscale atmosphere designed for those who want to savor every sip. The personalized attention makes this tour feel more like a VIP experience than a typical group outing. Plus, the luxury of a private GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban means you can enjoy the scenic drives without the noise or chaos often associated with standard bus tours.

One potential consideration is the price point—at $89 per person, it’s a bit more expensive than larger, bus-based tours. But you’re paying for the comfort, exclusivity, and the chance to interact more personally with your guides and winery staff. This tour is best suited for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a more refined wine tasting experience with value for the upscale feel.

If you’re eager to enjoy Michigan’s best sparkling wines in an elegant setting, this tour is an excellent choice. It fits those who appreciate authentic, boutique winery visits and prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of larger tour groups. It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply for those who want a more memorable wine experience in Traverse City.

Key Points

Luxury Transportation: Instead of a party bus, enjoy a private GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban, offering comfort and style.
Expert Guides: Led by real wine enthusiasts, including Magic Mike, ensuring personalized, knowledgeable tastings.
Premium Wineries: Visit four top wineries known for sparkling wine and Champagne-style bubbly.
Stunning Views: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Old Mission Peninsula, with vineyards and Lake Michigan vistas.
Flexible Tours: Options for morning or sunset experiences, with the possibility of a distillery visit on sunset tours.
Group Size & Value: Most groups are small (6-7 people), with a free bottle of wine for groups of six or more.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

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Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at the Hardy Street Parking Structure in downtown Traverse City, close to many favorite eateries and bars. From there, your luxury SUV awaits, and you’ll be driven in style by your guide, Magic Mike, who doubles as a wine expert. Unlike traditional bus tours, which can feel rushed and crowded, this experience offers a semi-private, relaxed atmosphere—most groups are limited to 6-7 people, ensuring you get plenty of personalized attention.

The vehicle itself—a sleek GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban—adds a layer of comfort. Some tours will feature a Cadillac Escalade soon, which only ups the luxe factor. The air-conditioned ride makes the whole experience more enjoyable, especially in warm weather.

Winery Visits and Tastings

Your four winery stops are carefully selected for their sparkling wines and Champagne-style offerings. These include:

Hawthorne Vineyards: Known for their elegant Soiree’, a lovely sparkling wine that exemplifies the region’s finesse.
Bowers Harbor Vineyards: Enjoy their crisp Pinot Secco, a sparkling wine that balances freshness and complexity.
Chateau Chantal: Savor their “Tonight” Bubbly, a delightful sparkler perfect for celebrating any occasion.
Brys Estate & Bonobo Winery: Home of the renowned Brys Bubbly, along with Brut Cuvee, Blanc de Blancs, and Rosé varieties.

Each stop is designed to give you more than just a tasting—your guides, especially Magic Mike, will offer insights into the winemaking process, the vineyard’s history, and tips on what to look for in each wine. Visitors often comment on the notable quality of the samples, with quotes like, “We loved the variety and the way our guide explained each wine’s story.”

The Highlights

Aside from the wine, the scenery is a major draw. The views from the vineyards provide a backdrop of Lake Michigan, with rolling vineyards and lush greenery that are picture-perfect. The tour’s timing is flexible—whether you choose a morning tour or a sunset experience, you’ll get to see the landscape in different lights, making each visit unique.

On sunset tours, there’s the option to visit a distillery, which adds a different dimension to the experience—something for those who are curious about spirits or want a broader taste of local libations.

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Why It Works

This experience shines because of the personalized, VIP feel. No long lines, no crowded tasting rooms—just intimate visits with knowledgeable guides. The exclusivity and comfort elevate it beyond standard wine tours, especially for couples celebrating anniversaries or groups seeking a more upscale experience.

The small group size is a plus, fostering friendly conversations and ample interaction with the guides and winery staff. Guests have raved about Magic Mike’s enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, which helps make each tasting educational and fun.

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Value and Pricing

At $89 per person, this tour offers good value considering the private transportation, expert guides, and four winery visits. If you’re someone who appreciates quality, comfort, and authentic experiences, this cost is justified. It’s especially attractive if you want to avoid the crowd and savor your wine in a more relaxed, upscale setting.

Who Is It Best For?

This tour suits those who want a laid-back yet refined wine tasting, with a focus on sparkling wines and Champagne-style bubbly. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. If you’re a wine enthusiast eager for expert insights and a luxury experience, this tour checks all the boxes. Travelers who dislike big, noisy bus tours and prefer a more intimate setting will find this a perfect fit.

The Sum Up

For travelers looking to enjoy Michigan’s renowned wine region in a comfortable, upscale manner, this non-bus, private tour offers exceptional value. You’ll get to visit four top wineries, sample excellent sparkling wines, and take in breathtaking views—all while riding in style and comfort. The guides’ genuine passion and knowledge enrich the experience, making it feel more like a visit with friends than a typical tour.

If you’re seeking a romantic outing, a special celebration, or just a more authentic way to discover Traverse City’s wine scene, this experience is well worth the price. It caters to those who prioritize personalized service, quality wines, and beautiful scenery—a true taste of Michigan’s best in a setting that’s both fun and sophisticated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $89 per person, which covers the private transportation, expert guides, and four winery visits and tastings.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 4.5 hours, with options for morning or sunset tours.

Where do we meet for the tour?
Meet at the Hardy Street Parking Structure in downtown Traverse City, near the Middlecoast Brewery. Pickup at other nearby hotels or Airbnb/VRBOs can be arranged.

What type of vehicle is used?
The tour features a luxury GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban, with plans to include a Cadillac Escalade soon.

Are the winery visits private or group-based?
Most groups are small, typically 6-7 people, giving a semi-private feel. Larger groups of six or more receive a free bottle of wine.

Is food included in the tour?
Tastings are included, but additional food and snacks are available at extra cost.

Can I bring my own wine or other beverages?
You can bring wine back after the tour; the experience itself includes tastings only.

Are children or pregnant women allowed?
This tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with pre-existing medical conditions.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suited for wine tasting and outdoor scenery; no specific dress code.

Can I customize the winery stops?
Yes, let your guide know if you have wineries you’d like to visit; availability and weather conditions may influence the final selection.

This detailed, balanced review underscores the value of this luxury, non-bus wine tour. Whether you’re a wine lover, celebrating something special, or simply craving a more personal experience, this tour offers a memorable way to enjoy Traverse City’s finest sparkling wines in style.