NON BUS Traverse City Wine Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour

Discover the Non-Bus Traverse City Wine Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour

Exploring Traverse City’s renowned wine scene without the hassle of a party bus? This non-bus wine tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to sample some of Michigan’s finest wines, guided by knowledgeable experts.

What makes this experience special? First, the flexibility of a semi-private vehicle means no crowded buses or rushing from winery to winery. Second, the stunning scenery along the Old Mission Peninsula adds a visual feast to your wine tasting. Third, the expert guides ensure you get personalized recommendations and insider insights that elevate your visit.

One potential consideration is that tastings, food, and bottles are extra costs, so this tour is primarily a guided transportation and tasting experience. It’s best suited for wine lovers who appreciate quality, personalized service, and a more relaxed pace than traditional bus tours.

If you’re looking for an authentic, intimate wine adventure with a touch of luxury and expert knowledge, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more tailored experience in Traverse City’s scenic wine country.

Good To Know

• Flexible semi-private transportation offers a more intimate experience than typical party bus tours.
• Expert guides provide personalized wine recommendations and insights into each winery.
• The tour includes visits to iconic wineries with stunning views and high-quality wines.
• Stunning scenery of Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay enhances the tasting day.
• Tastings are included, but additional food and bottles are extra, giving you freedom to indulge as you wish.
• The tour’s small group size ensures a relaxed, personalized atmosphere.

What You Can Expect from the Traverse City Wine Tour

This is not your average wine tour. The emphasis is on making the experience enjoyable, comfortable, and enriching – with no party buses, no rush, just a curated journey through some of the best wineries on Old Mission Peninsula.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Hawthorne Vineyards

Your adventure begins at Hawthorne Vineyards, known for its secluded location and breathtaking views over both East and West Grand Traverse Bays. This winery’s high bluff setting is perfect for soaking in panoramic scenery while sampling their reds and whites. Guests can purchase wines by the glass, flight, or bottles, and even join the wine club if they wish.

The tasting room, set on a quiet bluff, offers a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for savoring Merlot / Cab Franc blends, Auxerrois, and Dry Riesling. The option to add a popcorn flight or charcuterie board is appealing if you’re hungry or want to enhance the tasting experience.

Guests have praised Hawthorne for its secluded ambiance and beautiful views, with some noting that it’s one of the newest wineries on the peninsula, adding a fresh perspective to the wine scene.

Stop 2: Bonobo Winery

Next, the tour takes you to Bonobo Winery, which was founded by local brothers Todd and Carter Oosterhouse. This winery is a standout because of its stunning scenery, excellent wines, and top-notch service.

Here, you can sample expert-level reds like the BDX and Pinot Noir, as well as whites like Blanc de Blancs, chardonnays, and a Fume Blanc. A unique perk is that this is the only winery on Old Mission Peninsula where you can sample a glass of whiskey, adding a fun twist to your tasting.

Guests have commented on how “wines you cannot wait to brag about” make this stop memorable, and the friendly staff often elevates the experience with their enthusiasm and knowledge.

Optional Stop: Bowers Harbor Vineyards

Depending on the day, your guide might suggest a seasonal visit to Bowers Harbor Vineyards, established in 1991. Known affectionately as the “dog winery”, it’s a welcoming spot where you might see dogs roaming the grounds, adding to the relaxed vibe.

Set on a former horse farm, with vines sprawling over 20 acres, Bowers Harbor offers a variety of wines, from Riesling and Chardonnay to Gewurztraminer and Pinot Noir. The tasting room, housed in a charming former horse stable, is often praised for its friendly staff and extensive wine selection.

Scenic Stop: Grand Traverse Bay

Between winery visits, you’ll get a chance to admire the spectacular views of Grand Traverse Bay. This arm of Lake Michigan offers stunning vistas, especially from the high bluffs of Old Mission Peninsula. The bay’s history and geography add a layer of richness to the day, making it more than just a wine trip—it’s a scenic tour through some of Michigan’s most iconic landscapes.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $68 per person, this tour packs a lot of value, especially considering the expert guides, personalized service, and scenic stops. While tastings, food, and bottles are extra, the quality of wineries visited and the intimate setting justify the price. You’re paying for a well-curated experience that balances education, scenery, and relaxed luxury.

The use of luxury SUVs like GMC Yukons and upcoming Cadillac Escalades means you’re traveling in comfort, with climate control and space for small groups. The semi-private group size (most likely couples or small parties of 6-7) offers a balance of social atmosphere and privacy, making it ideal for those seeking a more personalized tour.

The Impact of Guided Expertise

Guides are not just chauffeurs—they are local wine connoisseurs and U of M grads, with a passion for sharing their knowledge. This means you’ll get tailored recommendations and insights about the wines, the wineries, and the area’s history, making the experience more meaningful. Several reviews highlighted guides like Steve and Mike for their friendly approach and extensive knowledge, transforming a simple tasting into a memorable lesson.

The Overall Experience

We love how this tour emphasizes authenticity, comfort, and flexibility. It’s clear that the aim is to provide a relaxed, high-quality experience rather than a rushed party scene. The scenic views, coupled with the comfort of a private vehicle, make it easy to enjoy the day at your own pace.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: 3 to 4 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the wineries without feeling rushed.
• Pickup: Convenient downtown Traverse City pickup, making it easy to start your day.
• Group Size: Small groups mean more personalized attention.
• Cost: While tastings and bottles are extra, the tour’s focus on quality guides and scenery offers real value for wine enthusiasts.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best for small groups, couples, or anyone who prefers a more personalized, intimate wine tasting rather than large bus tours. It’s great for travelers who want to enjoy spectacular views, learn from knowledgeable guides, and savor well-curated wines at a relaxed pace.

If you’re someone who loves local flavor, scenic landscapes, and quality wines, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s ideal for those who value comfort and authenticity over party atmospheres, making it perfect for quiet wine lovers or those celebrating a special occasion.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides transportation via luxury SUVs, with pickup and drop-off in downtown Traverse City.

Are wine tastings included in the price?
Samples are included, but tastings, wines, and food are purchased separately.

Can I join this tour if I’m not a big wine drinker?
Absolutely. It’s more about enjoying the scenery and guides than just the wine. The experience offers plenty of opportunities to learn and enjoy the atmosphere.

What’s the group size?
Most groups are small, with 6-7 people typically having their own vehicle, ensuring a semi-private experience.

Is the tour suitable for large groups?
Larger groups of 6-7 usually have their own vehicle, so it’s best suited for small groups or couples.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 3 to 4 hours, offering a balanced pace.

Can I customize the stop order or visit other wineries?
Tours are flexible, and guides can tailor the itinerary within the set stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual attire is recommended; dress for weather and scenic views.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While primarily geared toward adults, it’s suitable for those of legal drinking age.

How do I book?
You can reserve via the provided booking link, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

This non-bus Traverse City wine tour is a fantastic choice for those seeking a laid-back, authentic, and scenic way to explore Old Mission Peninsula’s wineries. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and a small-group, semi-private setting, it offers more than just transportation—it’s a curated experience designed to maximize comfort, learning, and enjoyment.

Perfect for wine lovers wanting personalized attention, scenic beauty, and quality wines without the chaos of larger tours, it delivers genuine value. Whether you’re celebrating, sightseeing, or simply craving a relaxed day of tasting, this tour provides an authentic taste of Traverse City’s best.

If you love the idea of sipping stellar wines with a view and expert guidance, this tour could be your next favorite way to explore Michigan’s wine country.