A refined, non-bus wine tour that offers a luxury experience on Michigan’s scenic Old Mission Peninsula. For $99 per person, this 4.5-hour tour stands out by leaving behind the noisy party buses and instead providing a semi-private, chauffeur-driven journey in a luxury GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban. Led by expert guides including a former law enforcement officer, the tour emphasizes quality over quantity with a focus on spectacular wineries, optional distillery stops, and breathtaking sunset views.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, personalized wine experience with flexible scheduling and knowledgeable guides. It is ideal for wine enthusiasts who appreciate stunning scenery, delicious tastings, and friendly service without the hustle and bustle of larger group tours or party shuttles. The tour’s price, at just $99, offers a great value for a luxury, semi-private experience with professional support and local insight.

Key Points

Luxury SUV transportation in a GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban ensures comfort and privacy.
Three winery stops plus an optional distillery visit showcase Old Mission Peninsula’s best.
Expert guides, including a former law enforcement officer, provide personalized wine recommendations.
Sunset tour offers stunning views aligned with the changing light and atmosphere.
Flexible pickup and drop-off in downtown Traverse City make planning easy.
Group size typically limited to 6-7 people per vehicle, creating a semi-private vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Non-Bus Experience in Traverse City

This tour departs from Hardy Street Parking Structure, near Middlecoast Brewery in downtown Traverse City, with pickups scheduled at 2:30 PM or 3:30 PM depending on the season. Skip the party buses and enjoy a quiet, relaxed journey in a luxury SUV. The semi-private group size—generally groups of 6-7 guests—means you get a more personalized experience with less crowding and more intimate tasting moments.

A notable feature is the expert guidance from real wine connoisseurs and local guides, many with university backgrounds. The guides do not just drive; they lead you through wine recommendations and stories about each winery, elevating the experience beyond just tasting.

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Exploring Old Mission Vineyards and Wineries

The tour includes visits to four wineries on the Old Mission Peninsula, selected based on availability, guest preferences, and weather conditions. Some stops on the itinerary include Bowers Harbor Vineyard, Chateau Chantel, and Chateau Grand Traverse. Each offers unique wine offerings and scenic scenery, making each stop memorable.

The wines sampled are included in the tour price, though flights, bottles, and food are extra. Food and snacks are available at additional costs, providing a chance to pair local wines with regional bites. Visitors should bring comfortable shoes and a camera to make the most of the stunning views and photo opportunities.

Visiting the Optional Distillery and Other Stops

Along with the wineries, an optional distillery is part of the afternoon tour. While wines are the main focus, this stop offers a chance to sample craft spirits and learn about local distilling traditions. The order of stops can vary to optimize sunset timing and weather conditions, ensuring a beautiful view with each visit.

The stopping points are carefully chosen for their scenic appeal and quality of offerings, providing a diverse tasting experience that highlights the best of Traverse City’s wine country.

The Sunset Vibe and Scenic Views

The sunset tour emphasizes stunning vistas of the Old Mission Peninsula. As the sun begins to set, the lighting transforms the landscape, making for spectacular photo opportunities. The timing of the stops is adjusted seasonally to coincide with sunset times, creating an extra layer of ambiance.

Guests enjoy peaceful and beautiful surroundings, enhanced by the luxury vehicle and personalized service. The changing light adds a special charm, making this tour a romantic and relaxing way to experience the region.

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The Guide and Customer Service

Cowboy Mike and other guides are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly approach. His wine expertise and local insights enhance the experience, making each stop engaging and informative. The customer service is described as stellar, with guides offering personalized recommendations and unhurried pacing.

The owners and guides are former law enforcement officers, which adds a unique layer of professionalism and trust to the experience. They prioritize customer safety and comfort, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable tour.

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NON BUS 3 Winery Old Mission Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour

Value for Money and Group Dynamics

At $99 per person, the tour offers exceptional value considering the luxury transportation, expert guidance, and multiple stops. The semi-private group size means fewer crowds and more intimate tasting sessions. Guests receive a complimentary bottle of wine if their group has 6 or more people, adding to the value.

Since wines and tastings are included but food and additional drinks are extra, the tour provides flexibility for personal preferences. Travelers who enjoy relaxed, guided wine tasting in a luxury vehicle will find this tour highly satisfying.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Guests should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and a credit card for any additional purchases. ID is necessary for wine tasting, and drinks or food are not permitted in the vehicle. The tour is not suitable for pregnant guests or those with mobility impairments due to the nature of the stops and vehicle.

The flexibility of the reserve and pay later policy and full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance makes booking risk-free. The tour operates primarily in English and is available for private groups upon request.

Old Mission Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour – Final Thoughts

This non-bus, luxury wine tour offers a relaxed, personalized way to explore Traverse City’s Old Mission Peninsula. The expert guides, stunning scenery, and quality wineries make for a memorable experience. It suits wine lovers looking for a comfortable, semi-private journey with flexible scheduling.

While it may not be ideal for those seeking a party atmosphere or with mobility challenges, the tour’s premium level of service and attention to detail appeal to guests wanting a refined, scenic escape. The sunset timing enhances the overall experience, making it a beautiful way to end a day in Michigan’s wine country.

Ready to Book?

NON BUS Old Mission Wine And Distillery Sunset Tour – 4 STOP

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many wineries are visited during this tour?
The tour visits three wineries and an optional distillery on the afternoon or sunset tour.

What is included in the price?
Wine samples and tastings are included; food, extra drinks, and bottles are extra.

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
The group size is generally 6-7 guests per vehicle, creating a semi-private experience. Larger groups may be available upon request.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, credit card, and ID. Drinks or food are not allowed in the vehicle.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments due to the stops and vehicle configuration.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve online with the option to pay later, ensuring flexibility in planning.

What makes this tour different from other wine tours?
The luxury SUV transportation, expert guides, and stunning sunset views distinguish this from more generic or party-focused tours.

Can I customize the stops or wineries?
Yes, guides are happy to consider guest preferences and wineries on your wish list if available.

Is food provided during the tour?
No, food is not included, but food and snacks are available for purchase at the stops.

This Old Mission Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour combines luxury, scenery, and personalized service for a memorable taste of Michigan’s wine country. If you value relaxed pacing, expert guidance, and beautiful views, this tour offers a fantastic way to enjoy Traverse City’s wine scene.