NON BUS Leelanau Winery Pairing with That’s a Pizza Food Tour

This review covers a tour that promises a taste of Napa Valley-style elegance right in Traverse City’s Leelanau Peninsula — without the cramped bus ride. Instead, it offers a luxury SUV experience, personalized wine recommendations, and visits to three standout wineries. Paired with a delicious meal at That’sa Pizza, this tour is perfect for those craving a relaxed, scenic, and authentic wine-tasting adventure.

One of the best parts? The guides aren’t just drivers—they’re real wine enthusiasts and locals with years of experience, offering genuine insights about each stop. But, do note that tastings, food, and bottles are extra, so budget accordingly.

If you’re seeking an intimate, upscale way to explore Michigan’s wine country, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s ideal for small groups, couples, or anyone who appreciates a blend of scenic beauty, premium wine, and top-tier service.

Key Points

• Small Group, Personalized Service: With a maximum of 12 travelers, you’ll enjoy a semi-private, intimate atmosphere.
• Expert Guides, Not Buses: Guides are true wine aficionados with extensive local knowledge, providing tailored wine recommendations.
• Stunning Views & Authentic Venues: The tour visits boutique wineries and a family farm, not mass-produced spots.
• Luxury Transportation: Travel in a spacious SUV, ensuring comfort and style throughout the day.
• Flexible & Customizable: Stops may vary depending on weather and availability, adding a spontaneous element.
• Additional Costs: Tastings, food, and bottles are extra, so plan your budget for a full experience.

A detailed review of the Leelanau Winery experience

The Premium Small-Group Approach

Unlike traditional large bus tours, this experience keeps groups small—usually around 6 to 7 people—creating a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere. The guiding philosophy is clear: guests aren’t just passengers; they’re friends on a curated wine journey. The vehicle? A sleek GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, or soon, a Cadillac Escalade, offering a luxurious, comfortable ride with air conditioning—perfect for Michigan’s seasonal fluctuations.

Guests can expect a semi-private, non-party-bus vibe, which means more intimate conversations, better access to guides, and a chance to ask questions freely. The guides are not just drivers but U of M, MSU, and other Michigan university grads who genuinely love sharing their knowledge of the local wine scene and Leelanau’s scenic beauty.

The Itinerary in Depth

Stop 1: Shady Lane Cellars

First stop on the tour is the charming Shady Lane Cellars. Known as one of Leelanau’s top boutique wineries, it produces around 7,000 cases per year, which means you’re likely to enjoy a relaxed, less commercial vibe. Here, you can buy flights, wine by the glass, or bottles—and join the wine club if you’re tempted.

What’s especially noteworthy is their selection of reds and whites. For red drinkers, the Blaufränkisch is a standout—rare to find outside Europe—delivering a bold, fruity flavor. White wine options include a Muscat (notably the first grape brought to Europe by Romans) and a crisp Coup de Blanc. Guests report that the “nature, vineyards, and orchards surrounding Shady Lane make it a truly authentic experience,” emphasizing its boutique charm.

Review insight: Visitors love the “small, boutique feel” and the chance to taste unique wines that aren’t available everywhere. The setting is peaceful, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and learn from guides who are passionate about the local terroir.

Stop 2: Rove Winery at Gallagher Estate

Perched at the highest point on the Leelanau Peninsula, Rove Winery offers spectacular views and a rich sense of place. The estate, operated by a family farm with Irish roots, uses estate-grown grapes—a detail that wine lovers appreciate for its authenticity.

Here, guests can sample the Fiona Runda, a delightful blend of Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc. For red enthusiasts, there’s the Cab Franc / Merlot, a 55/45% blend that captures the essence of Michigan’s red wine potential.

Review insight: Visitors note Rove’s strong finish to the day, praising the “incredible views and well-curated wine selection.” The guides’ knowledge about the estate’s history and the grapes’ origins adds depth to the tasting.

Stop 3: That’sa Pizza North Long Lake

After two wineries, it’s time for some down-to-earth, local flavor—at That’sa Pizza, voted the best pizza in Traverse City. The dine-to-go setup allows guests to order their favorite pie, made from local ingredients, which they can enjoy in a relaxed environment.

This stop also provides a chance to refuel and chat, with options for a quick bite before heading back into wine territory or heading into downtown Traverse City for continued fun. The tour concludes here, with drop-offs at the original meeting point or nearby bars for those wanting to keep the evening lively.

Review insight: Guests love the casual, authentic vibe and the “delicious pizza,” perfect for a break in the day’s wine-centric pace.

Optional: Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail Stops

Depending on the weather and timing, the tour might include visits to Ciccone Farms, Sutton’s Bay Ciders, or Brengman Brothers. These additional stops add variety—whether sampling hard cider, exploring more wineries, or enjoying fruit farm views.

Review insight: Travelers appreciate the flexibility, as it allows guides to adapt based on conditions, making each tour unique.

The Guide Experience

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides make or break this experience. Guests consistently mention guides’ knowledge, friendliness, and genuine passion for local wines and the area. They’re not just a driver; they offer insights about wine pairing, regional history, and vineyard practices.

One review notes, “The guides are true wine enthusiasts, and I felt like I was visiting friends who just happen to be wine experts.” Their relaxed, informal approach makes tastings approachable, even for beginners.

The Transportation & Logistics

Traveling in luxury SUVs means you don’t have to worry about sharing space with large crowds or noisy bus groups. The vehicle’s spaciousness enhances comfort, especially during Michigan’s cooler months or warmer summer days. The tour duration, around 4 to 5 hours, allows enough time at each stop to enjoy tastings without feeling rushed.

The group size is capped at 12, fostering a sense of exclusivity and avoiding overwhelming crowds. Pickup is from a central location—3860 N Long Lake Rd—with options to be dropped off at Downtown Traverse City or nearby restaurants and bars, making it convenient for post-tour plans.

Pricing and Value

At $199 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option available, but when you consider the luxury transportation, expert guides, and intimate setting, it offers good value—especially for wine enthusiasts wanting a premium experience. Remember, tastings, food, and bottles are not included in the price, so budget for additional costs, but this allows flexibility based on personal preferences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for small groups, couples, or anyone seeking a sophisticated, relaxed way to explore Leelanau’s wineries. It’s perfect for those who value expert guidance, authentic local wineries, and scenic views. If you prefer large bus tours or only want a quick overview, this might not be the best fit. But for travelers wanting a tailored, immersive, and comfortable wine journey, this tour hits the mark.

Final thoughts

This non-bus, boutique-style wine tour offers a luxurious, knowledgeable, and intimate way to explore Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula. The combination of expert guides, stunning vineyard vistas, and high-quality wines makes for a memorable day—especially if you’re seeking something more personal than a typical bus tour.

The inclusion of a local pizza stop adds a casual, community feel that balances the sophistication of wine tasting. Plus, the flexible itinerary and small group size mean your experience can feel tailored to your interests.

For those who love discovering hidden gems, savoring carefully curated wines, and enjoying top-tier service, this tour is a worthy investment. It pairs scenic beauty with an authentic taste of Michigan’s emerging wine scene and elevates the typical winery visit into a true VIP experience.

FAQ

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, allowing ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Are tastings included in the price?
No, tastings, wine bottles, and food are extra. You will have opportunities to purchase wine directly from the wineries.

What type of transportation is used?
Travel is in a luxury SUV, such as a GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban, offering comfort and style for small groups.

Can I customize the stops?
Stops may vary depending on weather, availability, and guide discretion, adding a spontaneous element to each tour.

Is the tour suitable for wine beginners?
Absolutely. Guides are friendly and expert, making wines approachable regardless of your experience level.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 3860 N Long Lake Rd in Traverse City and can end there or in downtown Traverse City, depending on your preferences.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on wine tasting suggests participants should be of legal drinking age.

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

To sum it up, this Leelanau Winery experience offers a combination of luxury, expertise, and authentic charm that’s hard to beat in Michigan’s wine country. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, small-group adventure with beautiful views, excellent wines, and knowledgeable guides who truly care about sharing the local wine scene. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a day of tasting and scenery, this tour provides a thoughtfully curated experience that balances fun and sophistication.