NON BUS VIP Chateau Chantal / Hawthorne Traverse City Wine Tour

Discover the Non-Bus VIP Chateau Chantal / Hawthorne Traverse City Wine Tour

This $349 per person tour offers a unique way to explore Traverse City’s renowned wine country in absolute comfort. With a duration of approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, the experience shines through its emphasis on luxury, personalized service, and spectacular views. The tour departs from downtown Traverse City, and the group size is kept intimate, especially for groups of 5 or more, who enjoy their own luxury GMC Yukon.

One of the most noticeable features is the VIP experience that skips the typical party bus or cramped vehicle, favoring luxury GMC Yukons or Chevrolet Suburbans. Offering pickup and drop-off, the tour caters to those who want hassle-free logistics and an elevated wine-tasting journey. While wine samples are included, guests need to pay extra for tastings, wines, or food at each winery. This tour suits wine enthusiasts, group celebrations, or anyone seeking a more comfortable, semi-private experience with expert guides.

Key Points

• Luxury Transportation: Travel in a GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban, avoiding cramped buses.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable wine enthusiasts lead the tour, providing tailored wine recommendations.
• Three Unique Wineries: Visit Chateau Chantal, Chateau Grand Traverse, and Hawthorne Vineyards, each offering distinct experiences.
• Spectacular Views: The stops feature incredible vistas of Lake Michigan and Old Mission Peninsula.
• Flexible Schedule: The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, with timed stops of about an hour at each location.
• Included: Wine samples and admission tickets for each winery are included; extras like tastings and food are paid separately.

Starting Point and Transportation Details

The tour begins at 303 E State St, Traverse City, and ends back at the same location. It features air-conditioned vehicles and semi-private groups, often combining couples or smaller groups for a more personal experience. No party buses or worn-out vans—only luxury SUVs ensure a smooth, comfortable ride.

The group size for groups of 5 or more is limited, giving each group own vehicle access, fostering a more relaxed atmosphere. This setup is ideal for celebrating birthdays, special occasions, or simply enjoying an upscale wine tour without the crowds.

The Itinerary: Winery Visits and Views

Stop 1: Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room

This high-altitude winery offers stunning panoramic views of Old Mission Peninsula. During the visit, guests can buy wine flights, glasses, or bottles to enjoy on-site or join the wine club. The guided cellar tour provides insight into the winemaking process, adding an educational element to the experience. The admission ticket is included, and the visit lasts for about one hour.

Stop 2: Chateau Grand Traverse Winery

A short drive from Chateau Chantal, this historic winery was established in 1974, marking the beginning of Northern Michigan’s Riesling production. Guests learn how the founder, Edward OKeefe Sr., planted the first Riesling vines in the region, aiming to craft a cooler climate-styled wine. The visit offers another hour-long experience, with opportunities to purchase wines or tastings.

Stop 3: Hawthorne Vineyards

This premier vineyard shares the same winemaker as Chateau Chantal, providing a great comparison between estate wines. Guests can buy flights, wine by the glass, or bottles, and have the chance to join the wine club. The tasting room provides a distinct contrast to the other stops, with a focus on quality wines and the unique character of Hawthorne Vineyards.

Additional Scenic Stops

The tour also includes views of Grand Traverse Bay, a vast arm of Lake Michigan, separated from the lake by the Leelanau Peninsula. The bay, spanning around 32 miles, offers scenery that complements the wine experience, with up to 620 feet of shoreline visible from the stops.

The Unique Selling Points of This Tour

Luxury and Comfort in Wine Country

The tour’s semi-private grouping and luxury GMC Yukons deliver an upscale experience. Unlike traditional bus tours, this option emphasizes personal space, relaxed pacing, and personalized service. The air-conditioned vehicles and professional guides make the journey comfortable and informative.

Expert Guidance and Personal Recommendations

Guides are local wine experts and enthusiasts, often UofM, MSU, EMU, or GVSU grads, who provide insights into each winery and tailored wine suggestions. Their knowledge enhances the tasting experience and helps guests discover wines suited to their tastes.

Flexibility and Ease

Pickup and drop-off at downtown Traverse City simplify logistics. The tour is quite flexible, with stops lasting about one hour each, giving ample time to explore, taste, and relax. Small group sizes mean fewer crowds and more personalized attention.

No Hassle, No Rush

Instead of rushing through wineries on a party bus, guests enjoy a leisurely pace with stunning views and exclusive access to iconic wineries. The VIP treatment makes this tour ideal for celebrations or special occasions.

What’s Not Included and Extra Costs

While wine samples and admission tickets are included, tastings, wines, and food at each winery are extra, so budget accordingly if you wish to purchase additional wine or snacks. The tour does not include any food or additional beverages beyond the samples provided during the stops.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing for flexibility in planning. A confirmation is received at booking, and the activity is private, meaning only your group participates, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Why Choose This Tour?

This VIP wine tour stands out for its luxury transport, expert guidance, and carefully curated winery stops. It suits those who want to enjoy Traverse City’s wine scene in style, avoiding the typical bus experience and opting for comfort and personalized service.

The emphasis on stunning views, expert insights, and relaxed pacing makes this an attractive option for groups celebrating special occasions or anyone seeking a high-end wine tour experience. The limited group size and luxury vehicles set it apart from more crowded, generic tours.

Final Thoughts on the Non-Bus VIP Traverse City Wine Tour

This tour offers a premium experience with luxury transportation, expert guides, and visits to top wineries with spectacular scenery. The $349 cost reflects the upscale nature and personalized approach, making it a worthy choice for those who value comfort and quality.

While the additional costs for tastings and food can add up, the inclusion of three winery visits and admission tickets provides good value. It’s especially suited for wine lovers, small groups, and celebration seekers aiming for a relaxed yet luxurious day in Traverse City’s wine country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The wine samples and winery admission tickets are included in the $349 per person fee. Tastings, wines, and food at each winery are paid separately.

How many stops are there?
There are three main stops: Chateau Chantal, Chateau Grand Traverse, and Hawthorne Vineyards.

What type of vehicle is used?
The tour uses luxury GMC Yukons or Chevrolet Suburbans. For groups of 5 or more, each group has its own vehicle.

Can I join the tour without a group?
Yes, the tour is private, and you will be the only group participating, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
The tour is best for small groups, especially groups of 5 or more, who will have their own vehicle.

Are there scenic views?
Yes, stops feature spectacular views of Lake Michigan and Old Mission Peninsula, enhancing the wine tasting experience.

What is the duration of the tour?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 303 E State St, Traverse City.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Who operates this tour?
The tour is operated by Movie Stars Wine Tours.