NON BUS Old Mission Wine And Distillery Sunset Tour – 4 STOP

Exploring Traverse City’s Old Mission Peninsula with the Non-Bus Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour

If you’re dreaming of tasting some of Michigan’s finest wines while soaking up scenic views, the NON BUS Old Mission Wine and Distillery Sunset Tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to do just that. Unlike the typical noisy, crowded party bus, this experience combines luxury, expert guidance, and flexibility at a reasonable price—$99 per person for about four and a half hours of wine tasting and beautiful scenery.

What we love about this tour is the emphasis on authenticity and comfort. The use of luxury SUVs means you’ll travel more quietly and comfortably, with fewer fellow travelers and more personalized attention. Plus, visiting three top wineries plus an optional distillery means variety—and ample opportunity to sample some stellar local wines. One standout feature is the guide, Cowboy Mike, who’s described as knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the experience both educational and fun.

A possible consideration is that food and additional tastings are extra, so if you’re hungry or want to sample more, plan for some extra spending. Also, since the tour is semi-private, it’s best suited for couples, small groups, or those who prefer a more tailored experience rather than large, noisy bus tours. Overall, if you’re a wine lover or simply want a scenic, relaxed way to explore Michigan’s famed wine region, this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Luxury transportation in GMC Yukons or Suburbans offers a comfortable ride and a sense of exclusivity.
• Expert guides make the experience more educational and engaging, especially if they’re as knowledgeable as Cowboy Mike.
• Flexible itinerary allows the guide to adapt stops based on weather, season, or guest preferences.
• Scenic views of Old Mission Peninsula add a memorable backdrop to your wine tasting.
• Semi-private groups mean fewer crowds and more personalized service.
• Includes wine samples but not full bottles, food, or additional drinks—so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour is built around the idea of quality over quantity. You’ll be picked up in Traverse City in the early afternoon, generally around 2:30 or 3:30 pm, depending on the season and sunset times. From there, you’re whisked away in a luxury SUV—most likely a GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban—and leave the large bus behind.

What sets this experience apart is the attention to comfort and personalization. With a small group size (most likely 6-7 guests per vehicle), you won’t feel like just another face in a crowd. Instead, you’ll enjoy a semi-private setting where your guide provides tailored wine recommendations and insights into the wineries and the local wine scene.

The itinerary is designed for flexibility, so the order of stops or even the choice of wineries might change based on availability, weather, or guest preferences. The stops include several acclaimed wineries like Chateau Grand Traverse, Bowers Harbor Vineyard, and Hawthorne Vineyards, among others. Each has its own unique charm—from classic, well-established houses to newer boutique wineries—and you’ll get to sample their best wines.

An optional distillery visit adds another layer of interest. While tastings are included in the tour price, food and additional drinks are extra. You might find the tasting flights or bottles available at each stop to be worth exploring further, especially given the reviews praising the high quality of wines and the friendly, expert guidance.

One reviewer noted Cowboy Mike’s expertise, calling him “very knowledgeable about everything and anything wine,” and that his recommendations were “spot on delicious.” Such personalized insights elevate the experience from just a tasting to a genuine education.

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Old Mission Peninsula, which serves as a beautiful natural backdrop for your tastings. The sunset timing adds a romantic, calming element—perfect for couples or anyone wanting to wind down with a drink and a view.

Value-wise, at $99 per person, you’re paying for a curated, intimate experience that might cost more if you tried to visit the same wineries independently, factoring in transportation, tasting fees, and guides. Plus, the inclusion of a free bottle of wine for groups of 6 or more adds a nice touch.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop

Wineries: Most stops offer a variety of wine samples, from reds to whites and sometimes sparkling or dessert wines. The experience is designed for tasting, so don’t expect full bottles—think of it as a generous flight that highlights each winery’s best offerings. The guides often have personal favorites and can recommend wines suited to your preferences.

The optional distillery: It provides a chance to explore local spirits, such as whiskey or gin, depending on availability. These tastings complement the wine stops and add some variety to the afternoon.

The scenery: Each winery’s location is carefully chosen for its views, with panoramic vistas of the lake, vineyards, and rolling hills. As the sun sets, these scenes become even more enchanting, making for memorable photos and relaxed conversations.

The guides: Their role is more than just transit—they’re passionate about wine and local history, eager to share their knowledge. Based on reviews, Cowboy Mike’s enthusiasm makes the experience lively and informative.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: About 4.5 hours, perfect for an afternoon or sunset outing.
• Cost: $99 per person, with some extras (food, additional drinks) at your own expense.
• Pick-up: In downtown Traverse City, at Hardy Street Parking Structure; timing varies with season.
• Group size: Most likely 6-7 guests per vehicle, providing a semi-private experience.
• What’s included: Wine samples, expert guidance, luxury SUV transportation, and a free bottle for groups of 6+.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes, camera, credit card, ID. No food or drinks in the vehicle.
• Not suitable for: Pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.

Authenticity and Value

This tour clearly emphasizes quality and authentic experiences over the loud, party-style atmosphere often found on bus tours. The use of luxury SUVs and personalized guides makes it feel more like a private wine tasting with friends than a tourist crowd.

The focus on expert guidance and scenic views means you’re not just tasting wine—you’re learning about it, soaking up the landscape, and enjoying a relaxed, unhurried pace. The price is quite reasonable considering the inclusion of multiple stops, transportation, and the personalized service.

From reviews, it’s apparent that both the scenery and the wines leave a lasting impression. One guest called their guide “very knowledgeable,” a sentiment that echoes across other feedback, emphasizing the importance of good guidance in making the most of your wine adventure.

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Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts, couples celebrating a special occasion, or small groups seeking a more intimate, comfortable way to explore Traverse City’s renowned wine country. It’s ideal if you prefer avoiding large, noisy bus tours and want a more relaxed, personalized atmosphere.

It’s also a good fit for travelers who value scenic beauty and want to combine wine tasting with stunning views—especially at sunset. If you’re seeking a luxurious yet affordable way to experience Michigan’s wine scene, this tour offers a great balance.

However, it’s not suitable if you’re pregnant, need mobility assistance, or plan to indulge heavily in food or additional drinks—those would require a different type of outing.

FAQ

Are food and additional drinks included in the tour?
No, tastings are included, but food and extra drinks are extra and available at the wineries or distillery if you choose to purchase.

Is the tour private or shared?
Most groups are semi-private, with most vehicles accommodating 6-7 guests. Larger groups might be split across multiple SUVs.

What wines will we sample?
While specific wines aren’t listed, you’ll visit several acclaimed wineries, sampling their best offerings—reds, whites, and possibly sparkling wines. The guide can recommend favorites.

Can I visit my favorite wineries?
Yes, you’re encouraged to share your wishlist with the guide; stops may be adjusted based on availability and guest preferences.

When does the tour start?
Pickup is typically around 2:30 or 3:30 pm, depending on the season and sunset timings.

How long is each stop?
Stops are designed to allow enough time to taste wines and enjoy the scenery, usually around an hour per winery.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, as alcohol is involved, it’s intended for adults. It’s also not suitable for those with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

The NON BUS Old Mission Wine and Distillery Sunset Tour offers a refreshing take on wine touring—more personalized, relaxed, and scenic. It’s a wonderful way to explore Michigan’s wine country without the chaos of large buses or loud crowds. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and a carefully curated selection of wineries, it provides a genuine taste of Traverse City’s best.

Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover or a traveler craving a peaceful, scenic experience to unwind at sunset, this tour delivers on both fronts. Its affordability and focus on quality make it a compelling choice for small groups or couples seeking an authentic, memorable visit to Michigan.

If you appreciate expert guidance, scenic beauty, and a comfortable, semi-private setting, this tour is likely to become a highlight of your Michigan trip.

In summary, for those wanting an intimate, scenic, and educational wine experience with a touch of luxury, the Old Mission Sunset Tour balances value and authenticity beautifully. It’s a perfect pick for travelers who want to taste the best wines on the peninsula while enjoying some of the country’s loveliest views—all in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: