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

Taking a wine tour in Michigan’s famed Traverse City area is already a treat, but this NON-BUS Old Mission Wine And Distillery Sunset Tour elevates the experience to something truly memorable. Instead of squeezing into a loud party bus, you’ll cruise in a luxury SUV with a small, intimate group — perfect for wine lovers who crave a relaxed, personalized vibe.

What makes this tour stand out? We love that it combines stunning views, expert-guided wine tasting, and flexibility to customize your stops. Plus, the fact that it’s a semi-private experience means you won’t be lost in a crowd. One possible consideration is the price point—$99 per person—while still offering a lot of value, keep in mind that tastings, food, and bottles are extra.

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a laid-back yet insightful look into the region’s best wineries and distilleries without the hassle of driving. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a touch of luxury, fantastic scenery, and knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Luxury Transportation: Cruise in a GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban, avoiding the chaos of party buses.
• Expert Guides: Guides are wine enthusiasts with insider knowledge, offering personalized recommendations.
• Flexible & Intimate: Small group sizes mean more personalized service and a semi-private feel.
• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Old Mission Peninsula while tasting wine.
• Included Tastings: Sip on samples at four locations, with some stops offering champagne and whiskey.
• Customizable Stops: The itinerary can shift based on weather, season, or guest preferences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

This tour offers a refreshing alternative to the usual crowded wine bus, replacing noise and rush with luxury SUVs and a more relaxed pace. The pickup points are conveniently located in downtown Traverse City, with options at the Hardy Street Parking Structure, making it easy to start your adventure without a long transfer. Pickups typically occur at 2:30 or 3:30 PM, aligning with sunset times, which vary depending on the season. Keep an eye on the start time so you don’t miss out on that beautiful light.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Hawthorne Vineyards
Your first stop is usually at Hawthorne Vineyards, where you’ll spend about 50 minutes savoring wine, enjoying sightseeing, and sampling local snacks or champagne. This vineyard is known for its welcoming atmosphere and quality wines, setting the tone for the rest of the tour. Reviewers love Cowboy Mike’s expertise; as one reviewer pointed out, “His recommendations were spot on delicious,” making each tasting session both educational and enjoyable.

Stop 2: Second Winery (name may vary)
Next, you’ll visit a second winery where you’ll sample wines, try champagne, and indulge in some food tastings. The flexible itinerary means this stop could change based on weather or season, but the focus remains on stellar wines and scenic views. Guests often comment on how these stops feel intimate, with plenty of opportunities to ask guides questions and get personalized suggestions.

Stop 3: Old Mission Distilling
The optional distillery stop is a unique highlight, with tastings of whiskey and other spirits, plus food pairings. This stop adds a different dimension to the tour, offering a taste of Michigan’s craft spirits alongside the wine. Reviewers have mentioned how knowledgeable the guides are here, sharing insights into the distillation process that make each sip more meaningful.

Stop 4: Bonobo Winery
The final winery is typically Bonobo, renowned for its wine and welcoming environment. Here, you’ll get another 50-minute session of tasting, sightseeing, and perhaps some champagne or food. Guests frequently remark on the “amazing” quality of the wines, and one reviewer called Cowboy Mike “very knowledgeable about everything and anything wine,” emphasizing how much the guides enhance the experience.

The Scenic Journey and Views

Throughout the tour, you’ll appreciate the stunning vistas of Old Mission Peninsula—rolling vineyards, lush landscapes, and the shimmering waters of Lake Michigan all around. The tour is timed to coincide with sunset, meaning you’ll see the sky change colors while sipping wine, a magic moment that many travelers cherish.

The Vehicle and Group Size

Traveling in luxury GMC Yukons or Chevrolet Suburbans, the ride is smooth, climate-controlled, and spacious enough for comfort. If your group reaches six or seven, you’ll likely have your own vehicle, fostering a relaxed, semi-private environment. The small group dynamic allows for casual conversations and tailored recommendations that large tour buses can’t offer.

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The Guides and Customer Service

Cowboy Mike, a standout guide, exemplifies the expert guidance and friendly service that travelers rave about. His knowledge of wines and the region, along with his approachable manner, makes the experience feel less like a tour and more like a personalized exploration. According to reviews, guides like Cowboy Mike make all the difference—“If you want the best time, book with Cowboy Mike,” one guest said.

What’s the Value?

At $99 per person, this tour offers a balance between affordability and quality. While tastings, food, and bottles are extra, the experience includes transportation, expert guides, and a carefully curated itinerary. Compared to larger, less personalized tours, this one feels like a real treat—especially with the luxury vehicle, flexible scheduling, and small group sizes.

Travelers also get a bonus: groups of six or more receive a free bottle of wine, adding to the value. The guides’ extensive knowledge, particularly Cowboy Mike’s, means you’ll get more than just a tasting—you’ll learn about each wine’s story, the region’s nuances, and food pairing tips.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for small groups, couples, or wine enthusiasts wanting a relaxed, VIP-style outing. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Traverse City wine country without the chaos of a bus tour or big crowds, this is a great pick. It also suits those who appreciate scenic drives, knowledgeable guides, and quality tastings.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women, as tastings involve alcohol and the vehicle itself is not designed for mobility impairments. Also, if you’re expecting a more party-centric vibe, this understated, refined tour might not match that energy.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or dietary restrictions?
While specific dietary accommodations aren’t mentioned, it’s best to ask the guides directly if you have particular needs. Tastings are focused on alcohol, and food options are extra.

Are tastings included in the price?
Yes, wine and spirit samples are included, but flights, bottles, and food are extra. Expect to sample a variety of wines, champagne, and whiskey at different stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking around wineries. Dress casually but consider layering for sunset views, which can be cooler.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the stops may change based on guest preferences, weather, or seasonal availability. Let your guide know if you have favorites or specific wineries you’d like to visit.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, with pickup times starting around 2:30 or 3:30 PM to align with sunset viewing.

Is this a private tour?
It’s semi-private; groups of 6-7 generally have their own vehicle, but smaller groups may share. Private options are also available.

Is there any age restriction?
Since tastings involve alcohol, this tour is not suitable for pregnant women or minors.

If you’re seeking a luxurious, intimate, and scenic way to experience Traverse City’s wine and spirit scene, this Old Mission Sunset Tour delivers. The mix of expert guides, stunning vistas, and flexible stops makes it a standout choice for anyone wanting a relaxed yet informative outing. The small group size and luxury vehicle translate into a personal experience that larger tours simply can’t match.

With its focus on quality, authenticity, and attention to detail, this tour offers excellent value—especially when you consider the savings on transportation, the personalized guidance, and the breathtaking scenery. It’s perfect for couples celebrating, friends looking for a memorable outing, or anyone wanting to see Traverse City from a local’s perspective.

In summary, this tour stands out because of its luxury vehicle, knowledgeable guides, and scenic stops, creating an experience that’s both indulgent and authentic. Whether you’re a wine novice or connoisseur, you’ll appreciate the relaxed pace and insider insights. Just be ready for some extra costs for tastings and food—those are the cherries on top of an already delightful experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: