NON BUS VIP Chateau Chantal / Hawthorne Traverse City Wine Tour

A Practical Look at the NON BUS VIP Chateau Chantal / Hawthorne Traverse City Wine Tour

If you’re seeking to explore Traverse City’s celebrated wine country without the clutter of a packed bus or a less-than-luxurious ride, this NON BUS VIP Wine Tour offers a compelling alternative. With its focus on comfort, expert guiding, and authentic wine experiences, it’s designed for those who value quality over quantity — perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in some well-deserved relaxation.

What I love about this tour is its luxury vehicle approach, which guarantees a comfortable ride and a more intimate, semi-private experience. Plus, the knowledgeable guides make all the difference, turning what could be a standard tasting into a true appreciation of Michigan’s wine region. An additional plus? The flexibility of visiting three wineries and the opportunity to buy wine directly from the producers — a win for connoisseurs and casual sippers alike.

A possible consideration is the price: at $349 per person, it’s certainly an investment. While the tour includes tastings and transportation, additional costs for wines or food are not included. This makes it a good idea to budget extra if you plan to purchase bottles or enjoy meals during or after the tour.

This tour suits travelers who want a personalized, high-end experience, especially those celebrating a special occasion or seeking a comfortable, guided introduction to Traverse City’s wine scene. It’s less ideal for travelers on a tight budget but ideal for those craving quality, convenience, and expert insights.

Key Points

• Luxury Transportation: Travel in style in a GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban, with the option of a Cadillac Escalade soon, offering a far more comfortable ride than typical party buses.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable wine enthusiasts lead the way, providing both tasting tips and context about the wines and wineries.
• Flexible Itinerary: Visit three carefully selected wineries, including Chateau Chantal, Chateau Grand Traverse, and Hawthorne Vineyards, with the option for semi-private groups.
• Authentic Experiences: Enjoy guided cellar tours, wine tastings, and the chance to buy wines directly from the producers.
• Stunning Scenery: Take in breathtaking views of Old Mission Peninsula and Grand Traverse Bay along the way.
• Value for Connoisseurs: The tour emphasizes quality, expert guidance, and a relaxed, high-end atmosphere that justifies the price for many.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at 303 E State St in Traverse City, a central location that’s easy to access, especially if you’re staying downtown. What’s notable here is the luxury SUV (GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, with Cadillac Escalade arriving soon). This isn’t your average ride — these are spacious, climate-controlled vehicles that allow everyone in your group ample room to relax, chat, and enjoy the scenery.

Unlike the over-crowded, noisy shuttle buses often seen on wine tours, this setup emphasizes comfort and semi-private groups. You might find yourself sharing the vehicle with just your friends or family, which enhances the experience’s intimacy and allows for more personalized interaction with your guide.

The First Stop: Chateau Chantal

Perched atop Old Mission Peninsula, Chateau Chantal offers more than just wine — it boasts panoramic views that are perfect for photos or just soaking in the landscape. Their guided cellar tour and tasting room are included, giving you a chance to peek behind the scenes and learn about the wine-making process. You can purchase flights, wines by the glass, or bottles to enjoy during your visit.

Guests have noted that the views are “incredible,” and the opportunity to buy wines directly from the winery adds a satisfying element of authenticity. The hour-long stop is enough to enjoy a leisurely tasting and absorb the vineyard’s atmosphere without feeling rushed.

The Second Stop: Chateau Grand Traverse

Just a few miles away, Chateau Grand Traverse is notable for being Michigan’s first Riesling vineyard, planted in 1974. This stop is perfect for those interested in regional wine history and innovation. The founder’s hope was to craft cooler-climate varietals, and today, their wines are well-regarded.

The tour guides often highlight the significance of this vineyard in Michigan’s wine scene, making the tasting more meaningful. Expect to sample some of their signature wines, with options to buy bottles. The setting here is more modern but equally scenic, and the focus on wine quality makes it a memorable part of the day.

The Third Stop: Hawthorne Vineyards

A highlight for many, Hawthorne Vineyards is owned by the same wine maker as Chateau Chantal, providing an interesting contrast. Known for being a “premiere vineyard,” it offers another perspective on the local terroir and winemaking philosophy. Like the other stops, tastings are included, with options to purchase wines or join the wine club.

Guests have appreciated the chance to compare styles from the same producer, noting that “it’s interesting to see the different expressions of the same wines from different vineyards.” The vineyard’s reputation as a “very interesting compare & contrast” spot makes it a favorite among enthusiasts.

Scenic Highlights and Additional Stops

Beyond the wineries themselves, the tour includes views of Grand Traverse Bay, a stunning stretch of water that separates the Leelanau Peninsula from Lake Michigan. The bay is roughly 32 miles long and offers spectacular vistas, especially during sunset, although the tour itself is primarily focused on the wineries.

The route along the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail is itself a feast for the eyes, with rolling vineyards and scenic overlooks. This combination of excellent wine and breathtaking scenery encapsulates why so many travelers fall in love with Traverse City’s wine country.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who are described as wine enthusiasts with a true passion for sharing their insights. This elevates the experience beyond just tasting wine — it becomes an educational and engaging journey.

The luxury vehicles are another major selling point, offering comfort and style that makes the roughly four-and-a-half-hour tour feel relaxed rather than rushed. The semi-private nature of the groups, often of just 6-7 people, fosters more meaningful conversations and a feeling of exclusivity.

The flexibility of visiting three wineries with the option to buy wines directly is a real plus. This allows for a tailored experience compared to larger, more generic tours.

Guests have commented that the tour is “great for groups celebrating birthdays or just getting away,” making it an ideal choice for special occasions. The “stellar wines” and views, combined with “celebrity customer service,” add a layer of luxury that many find well worth the price.

Practicalities and Things to Keep in Mind

While the experience is rich and rewarding, it’s worth noting that additional costs — such as tastings, food, and bottles — are not included in the $349 price. Budgeting extra for these is advisable if you plan to purchase wine or enjoy meals during your day.

The tour offers pickup and drop-off at some downtown locations, making it convenient for those staying in the city. The 4.5-hour duration provides ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried.

Since the tour is owner-operated by a former law enforcement team, it emphasizes safety, professionalism, and a friendly atmosphere that puts many guests at ease.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This VIP tour is most suited for wine lovers who appreciate comfort and expert guidance, and who are willing to invest a bit more for a personalized, high-quality experience. It’s ideal for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in a luxurious day out.

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic drives, learning from passionate guides, and having the flexibility to buy wines directly from renowned wineries, this tour offers excellent value.

However, if your budget is tight or you prefer a more casual, group-oriented experience, there are other options. Still, for those who treasure comfort and authenticity, this tour hits most of the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at certain downtown locations, with a luxury GMC Yukon or similar vehicle provided.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including stops at three wineries.

Are wine tastings included in the price? Yes, wine samples are included, but if you choose to purchase bottles or enjoy food, those costs are extra.

What wineries will I visit? The stops are Chateau Chantal, Chateau Grand Traverse, and Hawthorne Vineyards.

Can I buy wine during the tour? Absolutely, each winery offers wines for sale, and guests can join wine clubs if interested.

Is this tour private? It’s semi-private, often combining small groups, with groups of 5 or more having their own vehicle.

Is it suitable for small groups or couples? Yes, most groups are small, creating a semi-private, intimate atmosphere.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is designed for adults; minors are not permitted.

What is the cost? The price is $349 per person, which includes transportation and tastings.

How do I cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a luxurious, authentic, and educational way to experience Traverse City’s wine country, this VIP tour ticks many boxes. The combination of expert guides, scenic views, and comfortable vehicles makes it stand out from more traditional, crowded tasting tours.

While it’s an investment, the chance to enjoy three premier wineries in style — and avoid the hustle of party buses — offers solid value for those who prioritize comfort and quality. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate, learn, and indulge in one of Michigan’s most scenic regions.

This tour is best for couples, small groups, or special celebrations looking for a memorable, upscale experience. If you enjoy wine, scenic drives, and personal attention, you’ll find it hard to beat.

In essence, this VIP wine tour offers a refined taste of Traverse City’s winery scene with a focus on comfort, expertise, and authentic experiences — well suited for those who want more than just a tasting, but a memorable journey.