NON BUS Traverse City Fine Red Wine Tasting Tour

Introducing the NON BUS Traverse City Fine Red Wine Tasting Tour

Looking for a wine tour that skips the noisy, crowded party buses and offers a more intimate, upscale experience? This NON BUS Traverse City Red Wine Tasting Tour from Movie Stars Wine Tours might just be what you need. It’s designed for those who want to indulge in some of the finest Michigan reds while enjoying a laid-back, personalized atmosphere.

What we love about this experience is its focus on stunning views and expert guides who know their wine inside out. Plus, the luxury SUVs make for a smooth ride, and the tour’s flexibility with group discounts is a real bonus. On the flip side, it’s a longer, more relaxed 4½-hour outing—so if you’re expecting a quick rush, this might not be your best fit.

This tour is particularly suited for wine enthusiasts, group celebrations like birthdays and bachelorette parties, or anyone wanting a more refined, less hectic wine tasting experience. If you value scenic views, knowledgeable guides, and a more private setting, this could be your ideal day in Traverse City.

Key Points

• Luxury Transportation: Travel in GMC Yukons, Chevrolet Suburbans, or Cadillac Escalades, providing comfort and style.
• Focused on Red Wines: Sample some of the best reds in Michigan, like Cab Franc, Merlot, and Pinot Noir.
• Personalized Experience: Semi-private, non-party bus style with smaller groups (most 6-7 people) for a more intimate tasting.
• Stunning Views: Stops include wineries on Old Mission Peninsula with incredible vistas.
• Expert Guides: Guides are wine enthusiasts with local knowledge, making the experience educational and enjoyable.
• Flexible Group Options: Discounts for larger groups, with a free bottle of wine for groups of six or more.

Introduction to the Experience

If you’re tired of the loud, crowded party bus scene and prefer a more refined way to sample Traverse City’s renowned reds, this tour might be a perfect match. It offers a luxurious, relaxed alternative that emphasizes quality over quantity, with small groups and expert guidance. We’re particularly drawn to the way it combines stunning scenic views with top-tier wineries and wines, promising an experience that’s both beautiful and delicious.

One of the standout features is the personalized, luxury SUV transport, which ensures comfort and style throughout the day. Plus, it’s great to see that group discounts and a free bottle of wine add extra value for friends celebrating special occasions or just enjoying a day out.

However, since the tour lasts nearly five hours, it’s best suited for those who want a leisurely experience. If you’re after a quick, high-energy tour, this might not be the best fit. Still, for wine lovers seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed outing, it hits many of the right notes.

This tour will appeal most to travelers who appreciate expert guides and want an authentic, scenic adventure that emphasizes the region’s red wine specialties. It’s well-suited for celebrating milestones or simply enjoying a day with friends in a beautiful setting.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Hawthorne Vineyards

Your journey begins at Hawthorne Vineyards, one of Traverse City’s top-rated wineries. We loved the way this venue combines quality wines with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can buy flights, wine by the glass, or bottles to enjoy on-site, and many reviewers mention the chance to join the wine club during the visit.

The highlight here is tasting some of the best reds and whites in the area, which sets the tone for a day focused on premium wines. The visit lasts about 50 minutes, giving ample time to savor the offerings without feeling rushed. The admission is free, making this an excellent introduction to Michigan wines.

Stop 2: Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room

Perched atop Old Mission Peninsula, Chateau Chantal offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You’ll love the way this winery combines scenic beauty with top-tier wine tasting. The hosts allow you to buy flights, enjoy wine by the glass, or purchase bottles, with the added bonus of joining their wine club if you wish.

Most reviewers mention the incredible vistas here, which elevate the tasting experience beyond just the wine. The 50-minute stop offers a perfect mix of spectacle and sip, with enough time to appreciate both the view and the wines.

Stop 3: Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery

This stop is often highlighted because it’s one of Michigan’s Top Ten most popular wineries. What makes Brys special is the Froze’—a drink that many guests rave about. The friendly staff and high-quality reds make it a favorite for those seeking great value and memorable flavors.

Guests are encouraged to try different flights and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. The 50-minute visit is usually enough to feel like you’ve truly experienced one of Michigan’s best, and many say the staff’s enthusiasm enhances the tasting.

Stop 4: Bonobo Winery

Known for making guests feel like “movie stars,” Bonobo Winery offers wines you’ll be eager to brag about. The staff’s attentiveness and the innovative reds and Pinot Noir stand out. Visitors can buy wines to enjoy later or join the wine club.

Guests consistently mention the delicious wines and fun vibe, with the 50-minute stop being perfect for sampling and relaxing. The attention to quality and atmosphere makes this a highlight.

Stop 5: Bowers Harbor Vineyards

Established in 1991, Bowers Harbor is one of the original wineries in the region. The tasting room is situated on a historic estate, adding charm to the visit. Most guests find the wines to be consistently good, especially their reds, and appreciate the informative staff.

This stop lasts about 50 minutes and is a good chance to soak in more scenic views while enjoying a relaxed tasting. Many reviewers note the warm, friendly environment and the opportunity to buy bottles directly from the vineyard.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

One of the tour’s key selling points is its luxury SUV transportation. Unlike traditional party buses, these SUVs offer a more quiet, comfortable ride with seating for around 6-7 guests per vehicle, making it perfect for small groups or intimate celebrations.

The semi-private nature of the tour means you’ll likely be paired with other wine lovers, but the smaller groups help foster more personalized interactions. The tour is operated by former law enforcement, adding an extra layer of professionalism and safety, which many travelers appreciate.

Most reviews mention the expert guides, who are passionate about wine and local history, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Pricing and Value

At $69 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the luxury transportation, multiple winery stops, and guided experience. The inclusion of a free bottle of wine for groups of six or more adds a nice touch, especially if you’re celebrating.

While food isn’t included, the stops allow plenty of opportunity to purchase snacks or meals. The 4.5-hour duration ensures you get a leisurely, unhurried taste of Traverse City’s best wineries without feeling rushed.

What Reviewers Say

Although there are no official reviews available yet, the positive descriptions from the tour provider suggest many will appreciate the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. The emphasis on no party buses and a more refined, relaxed experience appeals to travelers seeking quality over quantity.

The mention of group discounts and the flexibility for larger groups makes it attractive for celebrations. Many travelers might find that this tour’s combination of luxury vehicle, scenic stops, and intimate atmosphere offers a memorable way to enjoy Traverse City’s wine country.

The Sum Up

This NON BUS Traverse City Red Wine Tasting Tour offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and high-quality wines in a comfortable, private setting. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid the noise of party buses and prefer a more refined, personalized experience.

The focus on luxury SUVs, stunning winery views, and knowledgeable guides makes it a compelling choice for wine enthusiasts, small groups, or special celebrations. The value is strong, especially with the added perk of a free bottle for larger groups, and the flexible, longer duration ensures a relaxed day of tasting and sightseeing.

If you’re after an authentic, scenic, and sophisticated wine tour, this is an experience worth considering. Just remember, it’s best suited for those who want quality over quickness and are eager to learn about Michigan’s red wines in a comfortable, stylish setting.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at 303 E State St, Traverse City, near the Hardy Street Parking Structure.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, allowing plenty of time for tasting, sightseeing, and relaxing.

What is the group size like?
Most groups consist of 6-7 guests per vehicle, creating an intimate, semi-private experience.

Are wines purchased during the tour?
Guests can buy flights, wine by the glass, or bottles at each winery, but the tour fee doesn’t include food or additional purchases.

What wines are featured?
The tour focuses on red wines, including Cab Franc, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and others, highlighted by the wineries’ specialties.

Can I join this tour as a solo traveler?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome, but keep in mind the group size is small, around 6-7 people, for a more personal experience.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The luxury SUVs—GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, Cadillac Escalade—are air-conditioned and well-maintained.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes or plans.

This Traverse City red wine tour combines comfort, scenery, and expert guidance into a memorable day for those who truly appreciate quality wine and scenic beauty. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just indulging your love of reds, it offers excellent value in a relaxed, upscale setting.