NON BUS Andie’s VIP Traverse / Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour

Traveling through Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula on a wine tour often conjures images of crowded buses, noisy groups, and hurried tastings. But this experience, offered by Movie Stars Wine Tours, promises something different: a luxury, semi-private journey with real wine experts guiding your route in a luxury SUV. It’s an appealing alternative for those seeking a relaxed, authentic tasting adventure without the chaos of typical group tours.

What makes this tour truly stand out? We love the personalized attention—with guides like Andie, Tony, and Kyle providing tailored recommendations—and the stunning views of the region that you’ll enjoy along the way. The VIP treatment combined with flexible itinerary options makes it a great choice for wine lovers who value quality over quantity.

That said, it’s not a budget tour—at $199 per person, it’s an investment, especially if you’re traveling solo or as a couple. Also, keep in mind that tastings are included, but wines, food, and additional drinks are extra. This tour is perfect for those who want a more refined, guided experience rather than rushing from winery to winery on a party bus.

If you’re looking for an authentic, intimate, and comfortable way to explore the Leelanau Peninsula’s best wineries, this VIP tour will likely check all your boxes.

Key Points

• Personalized VIP Experience: Travel in luxury SUVs with expert guides who know the region inside out.
• Top Wineries: Visit four of the best wineries in the Leelanau Peninsula, sampling reds, whites, and champagnes.
• Flexible Itinerary: The tour adapts depending on the season, weather, and special events, offering a tailored experience.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Andie, Tony, and Kyle provide genuine wine recommendations, elevating the tasting experience.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy picturesque scenery throughout the trip, adding visual delight to your wine journey.
• Semi-private Group Sizes: Usually combining couples or small groups, ensuring a more intimate vibe.

An In-depth Look at the Experience

What’s on Offer and Why It Matters

The non-party bus format is a breath of fresh air in the world of wine tours. Instead of cramming into loud, crowded buses, you’ll ride comfortably in a luxury SUV—think GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban, with a Cadillac Escalade coming soon—giving you room to relax and enjoy the scenery. This setup is ideal for those who value comfort and a sense of exclusivity.

The tour duration of 4.5 hours strikes a nice balance—long enough to relax and savor multiple wines, but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring. You’ll visit four wineries, each offering around 50 minutes to explore, taste, and ask questions. The stops are thoughtfully spaced out, so your experience feels unrushed and enjoyable.

The Wineries and Tastings

The first stop is Rove Winery at Gallagher Estate, a calm starting point where you can settle in and get a feel for the region. From there, you’ll visit Black Star Farms Suttons Bay, Ciccone Vineyard & Winery, and Shady Lane Cellars. Each of these wineries has its own character and specialties.

At each stop, wine samples are included—a real advantage, since you get to sample a good variety of reds, whites, and champagnes without additional cost during the tour. Reviewers mention being impressed with the quality of wines, noting that the guides often provide personalized recommendations tailored to your preferences. For example, one reviewer appreciated that their guide “knew the region so well and suggested wines I wouldn’t have discovered on my own.”

Guides and Personal Touch

Unlike other tours that may feel impersonal or rushed, guides like Andie take pride in offering stellar customer service. Guests report that guides are not just knowledgeable but genuinely enthusiastic about sharing their passion for the wines and region. They are U of M and MSU grads, adding a local, authentic touch.

One reviewer mentioned, “Andie really made the experience special—she knew the wines, the region, and made us feel like VIPs.” This personalized approach ensures you get wine recommendations that suit your taste, whether you prefer reds, whites, or sparkling wines.

Why the VIP Differentiates Itself

The VIP nature of the tour, with smaller groups—most likely 6-7 people per SUV—creates a more intimate atmosphere. This means more time for conversation, questions, and customized tastings. It also means fewer distractions and more space for comfort.

The tour itself is not just transportation; it’s a curated experience designed to highlight the best of the region and the winemakers’ stories. The included free bottle of wine for groups of six or more is a nice touch, making the experience more memorable.

Practicalities and Value

The price of $199 per person is reasonable considering the luxury transport, expert guides, and quality wineries visited. When compared to typical group tours that can cost similar amounts but lack personalized service, this VIP tour offers better value for those who love detailed experiences.

Additional costs include wines beyond the samples—if you want to purchase bottles or flights, expect to pay extra. Food and extra drinks are also additional, so plan accordingly if you want a full meal or snacks.

Flexibility and Accessibility

Multiple pickup locations and options for hotel pickup make it easy to align this tour with your schedule. The tour is flexible depending on weather or special regional events, ensuring you get the best possible experience regardless of external factors.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to wine enthusiasts who appreciate a personalized, guided experience. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone who prefers relaxed, intimate settings over large bus tours. The stunning views and knowledgeable guides make it suitable for travelers wanting more than just wine tasting—for them, it’s about connecting with the region’s spirit.

People who value comfort and exclusivity will find this a worthwhile splurge. If you’re traveling solo but want a semi-private experience, this tour still offers a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded travelers while enjoying top-notch wines.

Final Thoughts

This VIP wine tour in Leelanau Peninsula delivers a thoughtful, luxurious experience that highlights the best of Michigan’s wine country. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and a comfortable ride, it’s ideal for those who want to savor their wine journey without the chaos of party buses or large crowds.

While the price is higher than some group tours, the personalized service and quality of wineries make it a compelling option—especially for travelers seeking a more refined, authentic experience. It’s well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone who wants a relaxed, guided exploration of Michigan’s premium wine region.

If stunning vineyard views, expert guidance, and VIP treatment sound appealing, you’ll find this tour delivers excellent value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome. The tour is semi-private, so even if you’re alone, you’ll be riding in a smaller SUV with knowledgeable guides and fellow wine lovers.

Are tastings included in the price?
Yes, wine samples and splashes are included during each winery stop. Additional wines, bottles, or flights can be purchased separately.

How many wineries will I visit?
You’ll visit four wineries in total, with around 50 minutes at each stop to taste, explore, and ask questions.

Is the tour private or semi-private?
Most groups are small and often combine couples or small groups, ensuring a more personal experience. Groups of 6 or more get a free bottle of wine.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera for the views, and water. Food and additional snacks are available at extra cost.

Can I be picked up from my hotel?
Yes, multiple pickup options are available, including hotel pickups in Downtown Traverse City and other lodging options—just specify during booking.

This Leelanau Peninsula VIP wine tour offers a comprehensive, relaxed, and authentic way to explore Michigan’s best wineries. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just want to experience the region in style, it’s a memorable journey worth considering.