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

Exploring the Leelanau Peninsula in Style: A Review of the Non-Bus Leelanau Winery Pairing with That’s a Pizza Food Tour

If you’re dreaming of a wine adventure that combines elegance, authentic flavor, and personalized service, the Non-Bus Leelanau Winery Pairing with That’s a Pizza Food Tour might just be your perfect match. This tour promises to steer clear of the typical tour bus scene, instead offering a more intimate, luxury experience—think SUVs instead of party buses, and guides who know their wines inside out rather than just drivers.

What we love about this tour are three standout features: first, the knowledgeable guides who offer tailored wine recommendations; second, the stunning scenic views that make each stop a visual delight; and third, the boutique wineries that serve some of the best reds and whites this region has to offer. One thing to keep in mind is that the cost of $199 doesn’t include tastings or food, so you’ll be prepared for extras if you want to indulge fully. Finally, this experience suits those who appreciate a more personalized, relaxed vibe over large crowds, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a high-class, authentic wine tasting day.

Good To Know

• Small, semi-private group size ensures a more personalized experience
• Expert guides with deep knowledge of Leelanau wines and best pairings
• Luxury SUVs provide comfort and style, avoiding the typical bus scene
• Three boutique wineries showcase the best of Leelanau’s reds and whites
• Food pairing at That’sa Pizza adds a delicious local touch to the day
• Flexible options for ending the tour in downtown Traverse City or back at the start point

An Authentic, Boutique Wine Experience on the Leelanau Peninsula

This tour offers a refreshing change from conventional wine bus tours—here, you’re treated more like a VIP than just another passenger. The adventure lasts around 4 to 5 hours, perfect for a full but relaxed day of wine tasting, sightseeing, and good company. At $199 per person, it feels like a fair price considering the personalized service, expert guides, and boutique wineries you’ll visit. Keep in mind, tastings, wines, and food are not included in the fee, so you’ll want to budget some extra for sample flights or bottles you might want to take home.

What really makes this experience shine is the guides, who are true wine enthusiasts with years of experience in the region. They’re not just chauffeurs but wine connoisseurs who offer real recommendations, making each stop more meaningful. Their local expertise shines when they suggest wines that match your taste, whether you prefer reds or whites. The guides’ friendly, knowledgeable approach helps turn this into more than just a tasting tour—it’s a curated experience that feels personalized from start to finish.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect at Each Stop

Stop 1: Shady Lane Cellars

Your journey begins at Shady Lane Cellars, a charming boutique vineyard that produces around 7,000 cases annually, making it a true small-batch operation. Here, you’ll have about 50 minutes to explore the vineyard, learn about their production, and taste some standout wines. The highlight is their Blaufränkisch, an uncommon red grape variety with deep, complex flavors—perfect for red wine enthusiasts. White wine lovers will enjoy the Muscat or Coup de Blanc.

What makes this stop special is that Shady Lane is an old Chicken Coup, giving the winery a cozy, rustic vibe that feels authentic and intimate. Visitors have noted that the guides do a good job explaining the different grapes and the winery’s approach, making the tasting more educational than just sipping wine. You can buy wines, join their wine club, or simply savor the taste of well-crafted, small-production wines amidst scenic vineyards and orchards.

Stop 2: Rove Winery at Gallagher Estate

Next, your journey takes you to Rove Winery, perched at the highest point on the peninsula. This family farm and winery offer a stunning panoramic backdrop. With 50 minutes here, you’ll sample a blend of estate-grown grapes like the Fiona Runda—a mix of Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc—that’s often described as aromatic and refreshing.

Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the Michigan-grown Sauvignon Blanc or the Cab Franc / Merlot blend, which showcase the winery’s dedication to estate-grown, quality grapes. This stop is described as an incredibly strong finish to the lineup, with many noting the knowledgeable guides’ insights into each wine’s story. The setting alone—on the estate’s high vantage point—adds a memorable touch to the tasting experience.

Stop 3: That’sa Pizza North Long Lake Location

After two stops filled with wine and scenic views, it’s time for some well-earned food at That’sa Pizza. This local favorite is voted Best Voted Pizza in Traverse City, and you’ll have about 2 hours to relax, order takeout, or dine in. The focus here is on local ingredients and authentic flavors, making it a perfect pairing after your wine tastings.

Travelers have appreciated how easy it is to grab a quick bite, and many find that the casual, friendly atmosphere of That’sa Pizza makes the experience feel more genuine. When finished, you can Uber back to downtown Traverse City or to your starting point, ensuring flexibility for your evening plans.

Optional Stop: Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail (Weather & Season Permitting)

Depending on conditions, the tour might include an additional stop at Ciccone Farms, Sutton’s Bay Ciders, or Brengman Brothers. This optional extension adds variety, such as cider tasting or visiting other local wineries, giving you a broader taste of the region’s offerings. Most travelers find the flexibility beneficial, especially if weather is a factor.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Personalized, Small-Group Experience

Unlike larger bus tours, this experience caps at about 12 travelers, often in luxury SUVs like the GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, or soon, Cadillac Escalade. This setup creates a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere where guides can focus on your preferences and answer questions in depth. Many reviews mention how guides like Matt and others go above and beyond, offering genuine insights and friendly banter.

Expert, Passionate Guides

The guides are local wine enthusiasts and UofM, MSU, EMU, GVSU, and CMU grads, which adds a layer of genuine knowledge and passion. They don’t just drive—they share stories, suggest wines tailored to your tastes, and make sure you leave with a better understanding of Leelanau wines.

Scenic, Authentic Stops

Each winery offers more than just tastings; they provide a sense of place. Shady Lane’s rustic charm, Gallagher Estate’s panoramic views, and the cozy atmosphere of That’sa Pizza all contribute to a well-rounded, memorable day.

Value and Flexibility

At $199 per person, considering the luxury transport, expert guides, and boutique wineries, the cost is fair. It’s a semi-private tour, so you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the flexibility to end in downtown Traverse City or at your hotel adds convenience.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While the experience is highly praised, a few travelers note that tastings, wines, and food are extra, so the overall expense can add up if you indulge in many bottles or full meals. Also, since the itinerary is weather-dependent, some stops might change, which some guests find unpredictable but generally understandable given Michigan’s variable climate.

Final Thoughts

This VIP-style, non-bus wine tour offers a tailored, authentic taste of Leelanau Peninsula. The combination of knowledgeable guides, scenic vineyard stops, and boutique wineries makes it stand out for anyone craving a relaxed, personal experience. The added touch of ending with a local favorite pizza and the option to customize the day adds to the overall value.

If you’re seeking a luxury, educational wine adventure with small-group intimacy and expert insights, this tour will not disappoint. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or anyone who appreciates genuine regional wines paired with stunning views—and prefers comfort over large crowds.

FAQs

Is transportation provided? Yes, you’ll be transported in luxury SUVs like GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban. A Cadillac Escalade will be available soon.

Are tastings included? No, tastings, wines, and food are extra. You can purchase flights or bottles at each stop.

How long does the tour last? The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the stops? The itinerary is somewhat flexible depending on weather and season, with optional stops like cideries or additional wineries.

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Most travelers can participate, but since it involves wine tasting, it’s mainly for adults.

What is the group size? The tour caps at 12 travelers, providing a semi-private experience.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins at 3860 N Long Lake Rd, Traverse City, and typically ends back at the start point or downtown, with options for drop-off.

What should I bring? Just your curiosity and a desire to taste some excellent wines. Remember, tastings aren’t included, so bring some extra funds if you want to indulge.

This tour proves that you don’t need a busload of strangers to enjoy Michigan wine country—just a small, curated group, expert guides, and a scenic setting. Perfect for a relaxed, authentic day of sipping and savoring in Traverse City.