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

Travelers eager to explore Michigan’s renowned wine country often face the challenge of navigating busy bus tours or less personalized experiences. The NON-BUS Leelanau Winery Pairing with That’s a Pizza Food Tour offers a refreshing alternative — combining private-style luxury transportation, expert insights, and authentic local flavors. This review takes a deep dive into what makes this tour a compelling choice for wine lovers, foodies, and those seeking a more intimate, high-quality experience.

We’re particularly drawn to three aspects: the curated winery visits, the personal attention from knowledgeable guides, and the relaxing, scenic vibe of the tour. The absence of large, noisy buses creates a more relaxed atmosphere, and the luxury SUV rides promise comfort and style. However, a potential consideration is that tastings, food, and bottles are extra, which means budgeting accordingly. This tour fits best for those who prioritize quality over quantity, enjoy learning about wines from passionate guides, and want a taste of VIP treatment in a stunning setting.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: Small group sizes and expert guides make for a more intimate, engaging wine tour.
• Luxury Transportation: Upgraded SUVs replace typical buses, boosting comfort and style.
• Wine & Food Pairing: The tour includes tastings at three distinct wineries plus a pizza stop, perfect for food and wine lovers.
• Authentic Learning: Guides with over five years’ experience share detailed wine recommendations and local insights.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup and drop-off at the same location or downtown Traverse City cater to various plans.
• Additional Stops: Weather and availability influence a final stop, adding an element of surprise.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The First Stop: Shady Lane Cellars

Our journey begins at Shady Lane Cellars, a boutique winery producing about 7,000 cases annually. Known for its small-scale charm, it offers a cozy, farm-like setting paired with notable wines. Visitors can purchase flights, glasses, or bottles, and even join the wine club. The winery’s standout feature is its muscat, a nod to Roman history — and a rarity in Michigan. Red wine enthusiasts will appreciate the Blaufränkisch, while white lovers can sample the Coup de Blanc or the Muscat.

According to reviews, Shady Lane is a beautiful spot where the natural surroundings, vineyards, and orchards make for a relaxing experience. Guests often comment on the personalized service and the chance to really savor some of the area’s best reds and whites. The tasting here acts as a gentle introduction to the region’s diverse wine profile and sets a laid-back, inviting tone for the rest of the tour.

The Second Stop: Rove Winery at Gallagher Estate

Next, you’ll visit Rove Winery, perched atop the highest point on the peninsula at Gallagher Estate. This family-run operation takes pride in crafting wines from estate-grown grapes, emphasizing local terroir and heritage. The setting offers panoramic views that are perfect for picture-taking.

Here, expect to try the Fiona Runda, a blend of Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc, showcasing the estate’s diversity. Red wine lovers might opt for the Cab Franc/Merlot blend, which receives praise for its smoothness. Rove’s focus on estate-grown grapes and Irish roots adds a unique flavor to the experience, making it more than just another stop — it’s a testament to the region’s diverse influences.

Guests consistently note the knowledgeable guides who point out subtle details about each wine’s origin and pairing suggestions. One reviewer mentions, “The staff here made me understand exactly what I was drinking, and that really enhanced the experience.” The views from this location alone justify the visit, offering a scenic backdrop that elevates the tasting.

The Pizza & Downtown Traverse City Stop

After two wineries, it’s time for a well-earned break at That’sa Pizza North Long Lake. This spot has earned a reputation as Traverse City’s top pizza — made with local ingredients and crafted with care. The tour doesn’t include the food, but ordering to-go or dining on-site allows guests to enjoy some of the best pizza in the area.

This stop is designed to give you a chance to relax, refuel, and soak in the local vibe. Guests often use this time to chat with fellow travelers or continue the fun at nearby bars or cafes. The drop-off at downtown Traverse City makes it easy to extend your day, whether that means exploring more local eateries or heading back to your accommodations.

The Optional Final Stop: Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail

Depending on weather and timing, the tour may include a final stop at a selected location like Ciccone Farms, Sutton’s Bay Ciders, or Brengman Brothers. These options add a fun twist, whether it’s tasting cider, exploring more vineyard scenery, or experiencing other local craft beverages.

Guests have found this flexibility to be a nice surprise, allowing the tour to adapt to conditions while still providing a well-rounded wine experience. While some reviews note that this stop is weather-dependent, it underscores the tour’s focus on authentic, locally driven experiences.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This is not your typical wine bus tour. The focus on small groups, luxury SUVs, and expert guides creates an atmosphere of exclusivity that’s perfect for intimate groups, couples, or anyone wanting a more personalized experience. The guides, often with backgrounds from local universities or law enforcement, bring a genuine enthusiasm and knowledge that elevates the tasting experience.

The combination of scenic stops, high-quality wines, and a delicious pizza finish makes this a well-rounded day — especially for those who value the stories behind the wines and the setting rather than just quantity. The price of $199 per person is reasonable considering the level of comfort and expertise involved, though you should budget extra for tastings, bottles, and food.

Compared to traditional bus tours, this experience offers more flexibility, comfort, and a touch of VIP treatment. The small group size means you’ll get ample attention, learn more about the wines, and avoid the crowded, rushed feeling that large tours often have.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a wine enthusiast who appreciates knowledgeable guides and scenic vineyard vistas, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for travelers who want a luxurious, intimate experience without the hassle of driving, and who enjoy pairing wine with good food in a relaxed setting.

The tour’s flexible, small-group setup ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the focus on local wines and authentic experiences makes it stand out from more generic options. Plus, the scenic views and the chance to chat with guides with over five years of expertise provide added value that many fundamental wine tours lack.

On the flip side, those on a tight budget or looking for a more casual, party-oriented experience might find the extra cost and optional add-ons less appealing. Also, since tastings, food, and bottles are extra, it’s wise to plan for those extra expenses beforehand.

All in all, this tour offers a sophisticated, fun way to explore Michigan’s Leelanau wine country with a touch of celebrity-style luxury. It’s best suited for those who crave comfort, personalized attention, and an authentic taste of local wine craftsmanship.

FAQ About the Tour

Is this a bus tour? No, it’s a non-bus experience. You’ll ride in luxury SUVs, which means more space, comfort, and a private vibe.
How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including visits to three wineries, food stop, and optional final destination.
Are tastings included? No, tastings, bottles, and food are extra. However, wine samples and flights are available during the stops.
Can I be dropped off downtown Traverse City? Yes, at the end of the tour, you can be dropped off at your preferred downtown location or at That’sa Pizza.
What is the group size? The tour typically accommodates up to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Is the tour suitable for all travelers? Most travelers can participate, and service animals are permitted, but check specific health or mobility needs beforehand.
What is the cost? The price is $199 per person, excluding tastings, bottles, and food.
Are guides knowledgeable? Absolutely. Guides have over five years’ experience, with backgrounds from local universities and law enforcement, bringing genuine insight.
What weather conditions might affect the tour? The final stop is weather-dependent, and plans may change based on conditions, especially during off-season or inclement weather.

To sum it up, if you’re after a wine adventure that blends luxury, knowledge, and scenic beauty, this tour offers serious value. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate refined experiences and want to avoid the crowds. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your love of wine and local flavor, this itinerary promises a memorable day on Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula.