NON BUS Traverse City Fine Red Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re dreaming of a wine adventure that combines the charm of Michigan’s Old Mission Peninsula with a touch of style and comfort, the NON BUS Traverse City Fine Red Wine Tasting Tour might be just what you’re after. Although I haven’t personally taken this tour, the details suggest it’s an experience worth considering for anyone looking to sample some of the best red wines in the region, all while avoiding the typical party bus chaos.

What immediately catches our eye is the luxury SUV transportation—no loud, cramped buses here. Instead, you get a semi-private feel with boutique wineries, stunning vistas, and knowledgeable guides. Two things we really like are the personalized attention offered by the guides and the beautiful scenic stops that make the journey memorable. One potential consideration is that this tour, at 4.5 hours, is somewhat shorter than some other wine outings, but that focus can actually be a plus for those who prefer a more relaxed, less hurried experience.

This tour is ideal for red wine enthusiasts who want a more refined, less hectic experience, perfect for celebrating special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or bachelorette parties. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate authentic winery visits combined with scenic views.

Key Points

• Luxury transportation in SUVs ensures comfort and a more intimate experience.
• Guides are wine enthusiasts, adding a layer of expertise to each tasting.
• Visit 4 wineries, each known for their red wines, with some offering free wine samples.
• Stunning views from wineries like Chateau Chantal elevate the experience.
• Group size (most groups of 6-7) offers a semi-private vibe, perfect for small parties.
• Cost of $69 per person offers good value considering the personalized service and high-quality wineries.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour is designed to hit some of the most respected wineries on the Old Mission Peninsula, with each stop offering a unique part of the Traverse City wine scene. From the start at the Hardy Street Parking Structure in Traverse City, the experience feels organized yet casual, promising a relaxed pace that lets you savor each stop.

Hawthorne Vineyards

Your first stop is Hawthorne Vineyards, often considered one of Traverse City’s best. Here, you get to taste some of the finest reds and whites. Guests can buy flights, glasses, or bottles, and even join the wine club if they’re feeling committed. The relaxed 50-minute visit allows plenty of time to appreciate the vineyard’s offerings and beauty. Some guests have shared that they loved being able to buy wine directly at the vineyard, making it perfect for taking home favorites.

Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room

Perched atop one of the highest points on Old Mission Peninsula, Chateau Chantal offers exceptional panoramic views of the region. The tasting room is a highlight, with a range of reds and whites to sample. Expect another 50-minute stop to indulge in tastings and enjoy the scenery. Many visitors note the “incredible views” and the sense that this winery is a true gem of Traverse City wine country.

Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery

Brys Estate is a crowd favorite—described as one of Michigan’s Top Ten most popular wineries. The signature drink here is the Froze’, a wine that’s often singled out for its quality. The tasting experience at Brys is lively, with the staff often receiving praise for their friendliness and expertise. You’ll likely find that the relaxed atmosphere here makes it a memorable stop, especially with the chance to sample a variety of reds.

Bonobo Winery

The last winery on the list is Bonobo, which many guests say feels like a star-studded experience. Known for wines that “you cannot wait to brag about,” Bonobo offers a more intimate setting. This is another 50-minute stop, with options to purchase wines or join the wine club. Visitors often comment on the friendly staff and the quality of the wines, making it a perfect finale to the wine tour.

The Transportation & Group Experience

One of the most notable aspects of this tour is the non-party bus approach. Instead of a noisy, crowded bus, you’ll travel in a luxury GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, or Cadillac Escalade, ensuring a comfortable ride with climate control. This semi-private setup typically accommodates groups of 6-7, but with a maximum of 24 travelers total, the experience remains intimate and relaxed.

The guides are local experts and wine buffs, many of whom are university grads from Michigan. They add valuable context and enthusiasm, making each tasting more engaging. The fact that the tour is owned and operated by former law enforcement officers might also give travelers a sense of safety and professionalism.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For $69 per person, you get the transportation, expert guides, and wine samples during the stops. You can purchase additional wine or food at each winery—these are extras but allow for a personalized experience. As a bonus, groups of 6 or more are given a free bottle of wine (like Gamay or Secco, depending on availability), which adds tangible value to the package.

The tour does not include meals or the cost of wine beyond samples, but the wineries themselves often sell bottles, making it easy to pick up a favorite to enjoy later. The air-conditioned SUVs and knowledgeable guides** ensure comfort and education, making this more than just a tasting—it’s an experience.

Authentic Feedback & What to Expect

While there are no official reviews yet, the descriptions and features suggest that guests will appreciate the personalized attention, the scenic winery stops, and the quality of the wines sampled. The guides’ expertise is often highlighted as a major plus, helping even novice wine drinkers feel comfortable asking questions and learning about each variety.

Some might find the 4.5-hour duration just right—ample time to enjoy four wineries without feeling rushed. Plus, the no noise, no rush philosophy enhances the feeling of being on a relaxed, boutique wine adventure.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book at least 11 days in advance—most travelers seem to do so for better availability.
• Arrive at the designated meeting point on Hardy Street for easy pickup.
• Dress comfortably but stylishly—wine tasting is a relaxed but slightly upscale activity.
• Remember that food isn’t included, so consider bringing snacks or eating prior to the tour.
• If you’re celebrating a special occasion, mention it—groups often find this tour perfect for birthdays or anniversaries.
• Consider the sunset option if you’re interested in the distillery addition, but check availability.

The NON BUS Traverse City Fine Red Wine Tasting Tour offers a refined, comfortable way to explore Michigan’s renowned wine country. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid the typical party bus scene and prefer an intimate, guided experience in luxury SUVs. The stops at iconic wineries like Hawthorne, Chateau Chantal, Brys, and Bonobo ensure you taste some of the finest reds in the region while soaking up breathtaking views.

The combination of expert guides, scenic stops, and a semi-private transportation setup makes this tour both enjoyable and memorable. It’s especially well-suited for small groups celebrating special occasions or simply wanting a relaxed day of wine tasting with friends.

If you’re after a value-driven, authentic experience that balances quality, comfort, and scenery, this tour might just be your perfect Traverse City outing.

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides luxury SUVs (GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, Cadillac Escalade) for the entire 4.5-hour experience.

How many wineries will I visit?
You will visit four wineries—Hawthorne Vineyards, Chateau Chantal, Brys Estates, and Bonobo Winery.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Absolutely. You can purchase flights, glasses, bottles, or join the wine club at each winery. Some stops also include free wine samples.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at the Hardy Street Parking Structure in Traverse City, MI—near Middlecoast Brewery.

What is the group size?
Most groups consist of 6-7 people, with a maximum of 24 travelers, providing a semi-private experience.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund.

This tour suits travelers who value comfort, expert guidance, and scenic winery visits over just ticking off tasting rooms. Whether celebrating a special day or simply wanting to explore Michigan’s best reds in style, it offers a balanced and enjoyable way to experience Traverse City’s wine country.