NON BUS VIP Cherry Red Tahoe RST Traverse City Wine Tour

If you’re searching for a way to taste some of Michigan’s top wines without the chaos of a crowded party bus, this VIP wine tour in Traverse City might just be your ideal match. The experience promises an upscale, relaxed day with the comfort of luxury SUVs, expert guides, and a carefully curated itinerary of four distinguished wineries. And with no big buses and a more intimate vibe, it’s designed for travelers craving authenticity and ease.

What I love about this tour? First, the personalized attention from knowledgeable guides like Magic Mike (who’s no longer with Magic Shuttle but now offers this VIP experience). Second, the stunning views of Traverse City’s scenic wineries and the nearby Grand Traverse Bay. Third, the flexibility—you can influence the itinerary and enjoy a semi-private ride that feels more like a day out with friends than a big group.

However, a potential point to consider is that food, additional tastings, and bottles are not included in the package, so you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to indulge. Still, this tour is best suited for wine lovers who appreciate quality over quantity, love scenic drives, and crave a relaxed, sophisticated vibe without the party bus hustle.

Good To Know

• Luxury, semi-private SUV transportation offers comfort and intimacy.
• Expert guides with wine knowledge ensure genuine recommendations.
• Four top wineries on Old Mission Peninsula give a diverse tasting experience.
• Stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay add a memorable scenic backdrop.
• Flexible, personalized itinerary lets you influence your stops.
• Group discounts and a free bottle of wine for groups over six enhance value.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This isn’t just a transportation service; it’s a curated experience aimed at wine enthusiasts who want more than just rides from one winery to another. You’re paying for the expert guidance, quality wines, and the scenic environment—all in a comfortable, semi-private vehicle that feels more like a day with friends than a rush to hit multiple spots.

The price of $119 per person is fair when you consider the included wine samples and the personalized, relaxed setting. When compared to typical group tours, the value increases with the quality of stops, the level of service, and the scenic beauty you’ll enjoy along the way.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start Point and Pickup

Your day begins at 303 E State St, Traverse City. The tour offers pickup in downtown Traverse City, including some hotels, which makes logistics easy and fuss-free. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures you stay comfortable, no matter the weather.

Stop 1: Hawthorne Vineyards

Your first stop is Hawthorne Vineyards, one of the best-rated vineyards in the area. Here, you can buy flights, wine by the glass, bottles, or even join their wine club. The tasting experience is relaxed, with guests appreciating the chance to sip some of the best reds and whites in the region. With about 50 minutes allocated, it’s enough time to get a real sense of what makes Hawthorne special—plus, the setting offers lovely views and a friendly atmosphere.

Stop 2: Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room

Perched atop Old Mission Peninsula, Chateau Chantal boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and Grand Traverse Bay. It’s clear why this location is a favorite—guests consistently comment on the amazing vistas and the chance to enjoy a flight of wines at leisure. The 50-minute stay allows plenty of time to absorb the scenery and sample some excellent wines.

Stop 3: Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery

A highlight for many, Brys Estates frequently earns praise as one of Michigan’s Top Ten wineries. Guests love the Froze’—a signature drink that’s become a local favorite—and the friendly, knowledgeable staff. The 55-minute visit typically includes tasting flights, and reviews mention how the relaxed vibe makes it easy to chat about wine and enjoy the scenery.

Stop 4: Bonobo Winery

Known for making guests feel like movie stars, Bonobo Winery delivers distinctive wines and a welcoming atmosphere. Reviewers have highlighted how “wines you cannot wait to brag about” make this stop memorable. You can purchase flights, bottles, or join their wine club, and the 55-minute tasting allows enough time to really savor the flavors.

Stop 5: Grand Traverse Bay

While not a winery, Grand Traverse Bay offers a scenic pause—an ideal spot to take in the view of the 32-mile-long bay that’s separated from Lake Michigan by the Leelanau Peninsula. It’s a tranquil moment to soak in the natural beauty that surrounds the wine country, with free access and photo opportunities abundant.

Stop 6: Bowers Harbor Vineyards

Established in 1991, Bowers Harbor is one of the original wineries in the region, with a history that visitors appreciate. Their 50-minute visit often includes tasting their signature wines, and guests enjoy the peaceful estate with views of the vineyards and bay beyond. It’s an experience that combines history, scenery, and excellent wines.

Final Stop: Traverse City Wineries & Optional Customization

The tour concludes back in downtown Traverse City, with options to customize your experience—if you have favorites or specific wineries you’d like to visit, just let your guide know. The standard tour hits four wineries, but flexibility is key.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Personalized service is at the core of this experience—no giant buses or rushed visits. Instead, the guides focus on quality interactions and tailored recommendations. Many reviews mention how “the guides really know their wines,” and that the small group size makes the day feel more intimate.

The vehicle itself is a highlight—luxury SUVs like Tahoes, Yukons, and Cadillac Escalades offer a smooth ride, ample space, and climate control, making the journey comfortable in all weather conditions. For larger groups, additional vehicles like GMC Yukons are added, ensuring everyone stays in style.

The focus on scenic vistas—from vineyard views to Grand Traverse Bay—means you’ll be creating memories beyond just the wine tastings. It’s a seamless blend of flavor, scenery, and expert guidance.

Price and Value Analysis

At $119 per person, this tour offers a solid balance of luxury, personalized attention, and quality wineries. Since wine samples are included and the experience is semi-private, it’s more than just transportation; it’s a true wine experience. Extra costs for food, bottles, or additional tastings are to be expected, but many guests find the guided recommendations and scenic stops worth the extra spend.

Compared to larger group tours or party buses, this experience emphasizes comfort and quality, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or those wanting a more refined day out.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts seeking expert guidance and a relaxed, upscale atmosphere. Couples, small groups of friends, or even solo travelers wanting a more intimate and personalized adventure will find it especially appealing.

If scenic views, quiet comfort, and tailored winery visits sound like your kind of day, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s less about partying and more about appreciating great wine in a beautiful setting.

The Sum Up

This VIP Cherry Red Tahoe wine tour offers an exceptional way to explore Traverse City’s acclaimed wineries without the chaos often associated with larger tours. The focus on comfort, scenery, and expert guidance makes it stand out for those who value quality experiences over quantity. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just enjoy scenic drives with good company, this trip delivers a memorable day in Michigan’s wine country.

The luxury SUVs, personalized stops, and stunning views create a relaxing, sophisticated atmosphere that makes it worth the price. While food and additional bottles cost extra, the included tastings and the opportunity to explore some of Michigan’s best vineyards make it a worthwhile investment for a special day out.

Best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, upscale wine experience with a touch of scenic beauty—this tour balances luxury with authenticity, leaving you with lasting memories of Traverse City’s wine region.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes luxury SUVs like Tahoes or Yukons, with pickup in downtown Traverse City and some hotels.

How many stops are on the tour?
Typically, you’ll visit four wineries, plus a scenic stop at Grand Traverse Bay. The stops are flexible based on your preferences.

Are tastings included in the price?
Yes, wine samples are included, but flights, bottles, and food are extra and available for purchase at each winery.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, guides are happy to accommodate special requests or favorite wineries if you let them know.

What’s the group size?
The tour is semi-private, generally up to 30 travelers, but most groups are smaller, especially with groups of 6 or more who receive a free bottle of wine.

Is this tour suitable for a romantic getaway?
Absolutely. The scenic vistas, intimate setting, and expert guides make it a perfect choice for couples.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 4 to 5 hours, providing plenty of time for savoring wines and sightseeing without feeling rushed.

This tour makes for a classy, scenic, and wine-filled day in Traverse City—perfect for those who want to enjoy Michigan’s wine scene with comfort and style.