wine tasting tours in traverse city mi

THE 10 BEST Traverse City Wine Tasting Tours

Wine tasting tours in traverse city.

• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Private Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Ghost & Vampire Tours
• Walking Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Photography Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula

2. 5-hour 4-winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula

3. 4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula

4. Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour

5. 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula

6. Private Sunset Sightseeing Cruise in Lake Leelanau

7. Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour

8. Designated Driver TC - We Drive Your Car For Wine Tours

9. 5-hour 4-winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Leelanau Peninsula

10. Lake Leelanau 4 Hour Tour

11. Proposal and Engagement Sunset Wine Tour in Traverse City

What travelers are saying.

• 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula
• 5-hour 4-winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula
• 4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula
• 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula
• Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula
• The Magic Shuttle Bus
• Traverse Bay Tours
• Traverse City Wine And Beer Tours
• Traverse City Tours
• Wind Dancer Traverse City Tours
• Grand Traverse Tours
• Blue Lakes By the Bay Transportation

TRAVERSE CITY WINE GIRL

Covid-19 policy.

• Your vehicle will be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized prior to picking up your tasting team.
• Your chauffeur will be wearing a mask while driving.
• Masks are required for everyone riding.
• Hand sanitizer and sanitized wipes will be available inside the vehicle.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

• Client shall be liable for all damages to the vehicle caused by the client or members of his/her party, sustained during Client’s trip; to include but not limited to all spills, burns, rips, tears or any other damage to the vehicle.
• Client understands that there is no smoking or vaping allowed in the vehicle at any time. Consumption of alcohol in the vehicle is also prohibited.
• If a tour runs over the scheduled end time, Client agrees to pay additional charges. Additional charges are based on 1/2 hour increments (minimum).
• Your vehicle may be scheduled for another tour at the end of yours, thus making your vehicle unavailable for any additional time for your party.
• Client agrees that if anyone in the party is found using any illegal drugs, fighting, or any other forms of misconduct considered inappropriate by the driver, the driver may immediately cancel the tour and no refund shall be issued. All parties will be responsible for their own form of return transportation.
• Client agrees that Traverse City Wine Girl shall not be responsible for any items left in the vehicle or for the safekeeping of items in the vehicle.
• Client agrees to the cancellation policy: Client will be refunded in full (minus processing fees) up to one week prior to their scheduled tour.
• Client agrees that Traverse City Wine Girl shall not be held liable for any damages arising out of the company’s inability to perform services due to inclement weather, mechanical or electrical difficulties, delays due to traffic conditions, or any unforeseen events beyond the reasonable control of Traverse City Wine Girl.

TC Wine Girl Zero-Tolerance Drug & Alcohol Policy

Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. provides a work environment which aims to ensure the health, safety, respect and productivity of all employees and customers. Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. acknowledges that the use of drugs and alcohol may impair an individual’s capacity to perform their job safely, efficiently and with respect for work colleagues and customers. The use of such substances may result in the risk of injury or a threat to the wellbeing of the impaired employee, other employees, and customers as well as members of the public. Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. has an obligation under work health and safety legislation to provide a safe work environment. The purpose of this policy is to maintain a work environment that is free from the negative effects of drug and alcohol use. Employees must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs when performing any work duties for the Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C., at the workplace or while driving a company vehicle. Employees must not commence work or return to work whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Breaching this policy will result in the immediate termination of employment. Company vehicles are not to be driven by anyone who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. will not accept liability for any damage to a company vehicle, injury to any person, or damage or injury to any third party, incurred while the driver of the company vehicle is in breach of this policy or of the law. All liabilities shall rest with the person operating the company vehicle. If you take prescription drugs, please check with your doctor to establish if the use of the drug will impact on your work performance and particularly your ability to drive vehicles. If it will, please obtain this advice in writing from your doctor and provide it to your manager or supervisor before undertaking any work that may be impacted by you taking prescription drugs. Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. also observes a no-smoking policy in all premises, including in company vehicles, as well as on company property. Please report all violations of this policy to [email protected] .

TC Wine Girl Non-Discrimination Policy

Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. will not and shall not discriminate against existing, future, or potential passengers, on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. We are committed to providing a welcoming environment for all of our passengers, clients, and vendors. Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate and will take affirmative action measures to ensure against discrimination in employment, recruitment, advertisements for employment, compensation, termination, upgrading, promotions, and other conditions of employment against any employee, contracted drivers or job applicant on the bases of race, color, gender, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran’s status, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Please report all violations of this policy to [email protected] .

• Rates do not include driver gratuity or winery fees.
• All tours include picking up and dropping off in the downtown area/hotel strip of Traverse City. Picking up and dropping off outside this area may incur an additional fee.
• Refunds: should you need to cancel, you will be refunded in full (minus processing fees) up to one week prior to your scheduled tour.
• We will handle all necessary reservations for you - no need to do any work except to reply to an email you'll get from us 4-5 weeks prior to your tour.
• Want to know what to expect? Head over to my More Info page .

If you try to book a vehicle and it shows as not available for the day and time you want, please email us and we'll do our best to try and accommodate you!

SUNDAYS - TUESDAYS

All tours include picking up and dropping off anywhere in Traverse City. Option 1: Four-hour tours, typically 3-4 wineries. Option 2: Five-hour tours, typically 4-5 wineries. Option 3: Six-hour tours, typically 5-6 wineries.

WEDNESDAYS - SATURDAYS

All tours include picking up and dropping off anywhere in Traverse City. Four-hour tours, typically 3-4 wineries.

"THE EARLY BIRD" TOUR Mondays - Saturdays: 10:30am - 2:30pm Sundays: 10-30am - 1:30pm

Enjoy the wineries before they're saturated with other tours and visitors, so more time TASTING and less time WASTING! Great way to start your day! Would recommend a strong, mid-day nap after this tour before heading out into the Traverse City night-life. :)

"THE AFTERNOON DELIGHT" TOUR Mondays - Saturdays: 3:00pm - 7:00pm Sundays: 2:00pm - 5:00pm

A perfect tour to do after a late lunch! Would recommend you let me pick you up from wherever you ate lunch and whisk you away to wine country!

TOUR: "THE NIGHTCAP" - 6:00pm to 9:00pm (3 hours)

Hit those wineries that stay open later on Old Mission Peninsula. End the tour with a cocktail outside near the beach and marina at The Boathouse while watching the sun go down. Would recommend eating dinner before heading out on this tour. Available May - October.

FOR CUSTOM TOURS THAT YOU ARE UNABLE TO BOOK ONLINE, PLEASE EMAIL TC WINE GIRL

The Process

• After you book your tour date , you'll receive a confirmation email.
• I'll contact you via email prior to your tour to gather more information from you: # of guests, where you're staying in Traverse City, what types of wine you like, etc.
• We can design the perfect tour together, or you can let me do all of the work. Wineries are constantly changing their reservation systems, policies, and hours, so it's best if I handle the reservations. Although if you already have reservations, keep them! They fill up fast these days.
• On the day of your tour, I will send you a text letting you know I'm on the way.
• I'll pick you up wherever you are near the downtown area/hotel strip of Traverse City. Outside this area may incur an additional charge.
• While on the road, enjoy snacks and bottled water in the vehicle while enjoying the scenery.
• Note: wine-tasting fees are not covered - expect them to be between $5 to $15 per person.
• When we are finished, I'll drop you back off anywhere near the downtown area/hotel strip of Traverse City. Outside this area may incur an additional charge.
• If my schedule allows it, extra time is easy to purchase if necessary. Cash or credit cards accepted.

THESE TOURS ARE DESIGNED FOR COUPLES/SMALL GROUPS THAT WANT TO RELAX, ENJOY WINE, AND TAKE IN THE BEAUTIFUL VIEWS OF THE TRAVERSE CITY WINE COUNTRY

Old Mission Peninsula Wineries

Leelanau Peninsula Wineries

Amoritas Vineyards Aurora Cellars Baia Estate Bel Lago Vineyard & Winery Black Star Farms Blustone Vineyards Boathouse Vineyards Brengman Brothers Chateau Fontaine Cherry Republic Winery Ciccone Vineyard & Winery Dune Bird Winery 45 North Vineyard & Winery French Valley Vineyards Good Harbor Vineyards Green Bird Organic Cellars and Farms Hawkins Farm Cellars Laurentide Winery Leelanau Wine Cellars Mawby / bigLITTLE Nathaniel Rose Wine Rove Estate Shady Lane Cellars Silver Leaf Vineyard & Winery Soul Squeeze Cellars Tandem Ciders Two K Farms Verterra Winery Willow Vineyard OLD MISSION PENINSULA

About TC Wine Girl

Hi, my name is Karen and I love wine tasting! It never gets old to me and I would be honored to take you and your companion around the picturesque Traverse City wine country. I fell in love with both the Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula winery scenes on my third wedding anniversary back around the turn of the century. Touring Old Mission or Leelanau Peninsula is always fun, but it's even better when you aren't DRIVING!! My husband and I have been wine tasting here for years and continue to go regularly. We always see tour buses, limos and shuttles carrying several people, but hardly anything when it comes to transportation for just two people like us. Uber and Lyft are both an option, however they take a longggggggggg time arriving up on the peninsula. I believe it's best to spend more time wine tasting and less time worrying about transportation. I started this company so couples or small groups can make the most of their wine-tasting adventure time plus enjoy it in style!

Contact TC Wine Girl

This is bold and this is strong . This is italic and this is emphasized . This is superscript text and this is subscript text. This is underlined and this is code: for (;;) { ... } . Finally, this is a link .

Heading Level 2

Heading level 3, heading level 4, heading level 5, heading level 6.

Fringilla nisl. Donec accumsan interdum nisi, quis tincidunt felis sagittis eget tempus euismod. Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus vestibulum. Blandit adipiscing eu felis iaculis volutpat ac adipiscing accumsan faucibus. Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus lorem ipsum dolor sit amet nullam adipiscing eu felis.

Preformatted

• Dolor pulvinar etiam.
• Sagittis adipiscing.
• Felis enim feugiat.
• Etiam vel felis viverra.
• Etiam vel felis lorem.
• Felis enim et feugiat.

Item was successfully added to your cart

Tradition Meets Innovation

Located on lovely old mission peninsula just north of traverse city, michigan..

Mari Vineyards is dedicated to making exquisite red and white wine from experimental Italian grapes alongside traditionally grown appellation varieties.  

shop mari wines

Mari Vineyards offers a premier selection of estate grown and produced wines, making it easy to find the perfect bottle for you and your loved ones. As an estate winery, all of our grapes are grown right here on Old Mission Peninsula. Winemaker Sean O'Keefe works with everything from Riesling to Nebbiolo, creating wines that speak to each vintage and express the unique qualities of our area. Browse our current selection of available wines, apparel, and more!

Shop Mari Wine

Experience mari

Planning a visit to Mari? We have several experiences to choose from for the perfect fall or winter getaway.

Visit our Tasting Room to relax with friends while exploring our current selection with a flight or glass. Reserve a Private Tour and Tasting to learn about our Tasting Room, Production Facility, and Wine Caves. Enjoy live music every Friday, or Happy Hour every Thursday and Friday.  Have a larger group? Reserve our Production Lounge to enjoy a private space with behind the scenes views of our crush pad and processing level.

P lan Your Visit

Traverse City’s Wine Trail

Experience what thousands of wine enthusiasts have already discovered, the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail is the perfect wine destination for creating a day full of memories with friends or your next weekend retreat. Visit one or all ten incomparable wineries, take your pick of dining options ranging from come-as-you-are eateries to more upscale establishments, and plan on spending the night, at your choice of B&B’s and inns offering well-appointed accommodations and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Explore Old Mission Peninsula

The Wineries

Our wine trail is comprised of ten wineries that make up an unparalleled experience highlighting unique wines and the breathtaking beauty of Old Mission Peninsula.

Winery Events

Attend wine trail events and taste the delicious and diverse range of featured wines and the natural beauty of our region. 

Trip Planning

An adventure awaits! Plan your trip now to experience beautiful wineries, breathtaking vistas, and all that Traverse City has to offer. Explore the resources below to optimize your Northern Michigan adventure. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail? Browse through our list of Frequently Asked Questions.

Plan Your Trip

JOIN-IN WINE TOURS

• PRIVATE TOURS

Traverse City Wine Tours

Enjoy a Winery Tour on Traverse City’s stunning Old Mission Peninsula. With its gentle sloping hills and crystal blue bay views on either side, the Peninsula is our 19-mile slice of heaven. Weather you visit Summer, Fall, Spring, or Winter, the drive up Center Road is filled with stunning landscapes, boundless cherry trees, sweeping vines and, of course, plenty of Northern Michigan charm. Safely travel Michigan wine country and arrive in style with private winery tours and reservations for your group through us.

• Public Join-in Tours
• Book Private Tour

The Wineries of Traverse City

When you think of Traverse City you think of food and wine… and for good reason. Old Mission is on the 45th parallel, which is the exact parallel for the world’s most famous wine-making regions. Grape vines planted in the region enjoy the perfect amount of sunlight for optimal growth. When coupled with microclimates created by Grand Traverse East & West Bays, and fertile soil, this sets the perfect stage for delicious award-winning wines that rival centuries-old grapes produced in Europe & California. Let us take you on a tour of the Traverse City wineries. Most wineries are open year-round and we have personal relationships with many of the wineries on Old Mission Peninsula. We help your group book private tours and tastings for the day.

Choose From Three Join-In Tours

Public Join-in Wine Tour (Sunset Tour)

Sunset / old mission peninsula / traverse city.

Departure and Return Times: Sunday-Friday: 5:30pm-9:30pm

Departure & return location: Grand Traverse County Civic Center

Bowers Harbor Vineyards Duration: 60 minutes

Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room Duration: 60 minutes

Bonobo Winery Stop: 60 minutes

Public Join-in Wine Tour (Day Tour)

Day-time / old mission peninsula / traverse city.

Departure and Return Times: Sunday-Friday: 12pm-5pm Saturday: 11am-4pm

Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery Duration: 60 minutes

Public Join-in Wine Tour (Leelanau)

Day-time / leelanau peninsula / traverse city.

Black Star Farms Duration: 80 minutes

Shady Lane Cellars Duration: 80 minutes

Rove Winery at the Gallagher Estate Duration: 80 minutes

Traverse City & Old Mission Peninsula Winery Locations

To make it easier to plan your winery tour we have gathered a list of winery locations across Old Mission Peninsula. Each winery has a unique story and they all share a common love of their craft. You may love a sweet Riesling or an unoaked Chardonnay, or perhaps you love the bubbles in a crisp Brut Rose or even the warm spice of a Malbec. We have group and custom private wine tours for all palates.

Bowers Harbor

Address: 2896 Bowers Harbor Road Traverse City MI 49686

Phone: 231.223.7615

Hours of Operation: M-Thur: 10:30am – 6pm F-Sat: 10:30am – 7pm Sun: 10:30am – 6pm

Brys Estate

Address: 3309 Blue Water Road Traverse City, MI  49686

Phone: 231.223.9303

Hours of Operation: M-Sat: 11am – 7pm Sun: 11am – 6pm

Address: 12011 Center Road Traverse City, MI 49686

Phone: 231.282.9463

Hours of Operation: M-Sat: 11am – 9pm Sun: 12pm – 6pm

Address: 16985 Smokey Hollow Road Traverse City, MI 49686

Phone: 231.223.7722

Hours of Operation: M-Sat: 11am – 6pm Sun: 11am – 5pm

Chateau Grand Traverse Winery

Address: 12239 Center Road, Traverse City, MI 49686

Phone: 231.283.0247

Hours of Operation: M-Sat: 10am – 7pm Sun: 10am – 6pm

Chateau Chantel

Address: 15900 Rue de Vin Traverse City, MI 49686

Phone: 231.223.4110

Hours of Operation: M-Sat: 11am – 8pm Sun: 11am – 6pm

Peninsula Cellars

Address: 11480 Center Road Traverse City, MI 49686

Phone: 231.933.9787

Address: 1000 Camino Maria Dr. Traverse City, MI 49686

Phone: 231.929.4206

Mari Vineyards

Address: 8175 Center Rd. Traverse City, MI 49686

Phone: 231.938.6116

Hours of Operation: M-Sat: 11am – 7pm Sun: 11am – 5pm

Black Star Farms

Address: 360 McKinley Road East, Traverse City

Phone: 231.944.1300

Hours of Operation: M-Sat: 10am – 6pm Sun: 11am – 5pm

Frequently Asked Questions

1 what is the cost of a wine tour in traverse city.

The pricing for our public join-in Wine Tours in Traverse City begins at $99.00 per person. When it comes to private tours, the cost can vary and is determined by factors such as your group size and the duration of your chosen experience. Typically, private group experiences fall within the range of $499 to $999, offering a variety of price points that suits your preferences and budget. If you have a large group, private tours can often be more cost effective.

2 What is the cancellation policy for Traverse City wine tours?

There is a different cancellation policy for public join-in tours and private tours. For public join-in tours, you will recieve a full refund if cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. For private tours, the policy varies based on the designed experience. Please contact us for more details regarding our private tour cancellation policy.

3 How many wineries are in Traverse City?

Traverse City, Michigan, is celebrated for its thriving wine industry, featuring approximately 50 wineries. The Traverse City region, recognized for its scenic charm and favorable climate, has emerged as a world-renowned destination for wine enthusiasts.

4 What types of wine are produced in Traverse City?

The Old Mission Peninsula near Traverse City, Michigan, is celebrated for its cool climate, particularly suited for cultivating renowned white wine varieties such as Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Grigio/Pinot Blanc. Some wineries also produce notable red wines like Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc. For precise details on the different wine offerings per vineyard, reach out to our guides for recommendations.

5 What is a "join-in" wine tour in Traverse City?

Discover an unforgettable Traverse City wine tour with our daily join-in tours, offering wine enthusiasts the perfect opportunity to explore the region’s vineyards. Experience three to four distinct wineries, depending on your selected tour, with options available throughout the day and during sunset. Our tours are open to the public, catering to solo travelers, couples, or small groups. Secure your spot effortlessly on one of our daily join-in tours through TripAdvisor for a stress-free and delightful Traverse City wine tour experience.

6 Can you tailor the winery locations for a private tour in Traverse City?

Optimize your Traverse City experience with our exclusive Traverse City Private Wine Tours. Tailor your wine tour to your preferences with a private tour, ensuring an intimate setting for you and your group. Enjoy the entire shuttle to yourselves, selecting the wineries you want to visit. Our team at Magic Shuttle Bus will collaborate with you to craft a personalized itinerary that aligns with your tastes and interests. For the ultimate private wine tour, book directly with Magic Shuttle Bus, where our team will assist you in planning every detail for a truly bespoke Traverse City wine adventure.

7 When and where does the Traverse City "Join-in" tour depart?

Civc Center Hotline, 1125 W Civic Center Dr, Traverse City, MI 49686, USA. Please navigate to the Grand Traverse County Civic Center in Traverse City, MI and follow the signs to “Tour Bus Parking”. This will lead you to the desired parking lot where you’ll see signs that state “Magic Shuttle Bus Tour Patron Parking”. The bus will depart at 12pm Sun-Fri & 11am on Saturdays

8 How long is the "join-in" wine tour in Traverse City?

The duration of the “join-in” wine tours in Traverse City varies. Day tours can last up to five hours, whereas sunset tours are shorter, with a duration of four hours. Day tours typically include visits to up to four wineries, while sunset tours cover three wineries. In contrast, our private tours offer flexibility in terms of duration, allowing you to tailor the experience to your liking based on your preferences.

Suggested Vehicles For Wineries

View Entire Fleet

Mama Blue happens to be our newest addition to our fleet! Mainly used for mid size wine tours, brewery tours, and weddings!

Known as “big blue”, This bus can accommodate up to 20 passengers, and is our proprietary wedding vehicle. Equipped with mahogany wood flooring, bluetooth audio, Premium LED lighting, and wrap around social seating.

This big guy is equipped with a full bluetooth audio system, LED lighting, checkerboard flooring, social seating, and SO much room for activities!

The Magic Shuttle Bus provided transportation for my wedding in August. They did a great job! Very prompt, courteous, and went well beyond what was expected to make sure all of our guests had a great (and safe) time. I would recommend them for any event.

Kerri Crawford Houston, TX

We Go Where You Go.

• Book A Trip

Traverse City 231.492.6144

Grand Rapids 616.344.9212

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to use our website.

• Grand Traverse Bay
• Leelanau Peninsula
• Old Mission Peninsula
• Tour Photos

Testimonials

• Reservations

Call for Reservations (231) 633-WINE (9463)

Traverse City Wine Tours

Our Traverse City wine tours are a great way to explore and enjoy Northern Michigan. We can customize a tour to meet your specific desires, or you can join in on a tour that is already set. With Champagne Shuttle Tours you will not only get the change to explore some of the many great wineries in the Northern Michigan area, but you will also have the opportunity to enjoy other aspects of this wonderful community. 

Along with wine-tasting tours throughout the Grand Traverse region, we can  provide you, your friends, family members, business associates, and clients with safe and reliable transportation to and from any number of activities. We have competitive rates for tours up to 5 hours long!

Call us today and let us help you arrange transportation for your next social event!

Book a Tour

There are many wonderful wineries, we can create a custom tour for the region that you are interested in visiting.

Visit Old Mission Peninsula

If you enjoy craft beer, we can put together a brewery tour or we can create a tour with various types of libations.

Explore Leelanau County

Distilleries

There are a handful of distilleries throughout Northern Michigan. It is a nice addition to any tour.

Discover Traverse City

Special thank Champagne Shuttle & Tours for making our winery trip wonderful! We were able to fully relax while we visited all of the wineries on Old Mission! Highly Recommend! Harmony K. July 16, 2015

We had a wonderful experience with champagne shuttles and tours. Anita was so accommodating and made our trip truly memorable. Thank you for a wonderful day! Erin O. Traverse City, Mi July 16, 2015

Thank you Anita and Jerry!!! You did a wonderful job planing our wine tour Lisa Marie P. July 16, 2015

Anita was so personable! She shuttled us to 4 wineries and was awesome throughout our tour! She even got us a private room at one of them, what a sweetheart! Would recommend Champagne Shuttle and we will definitely use her again! Toni P July 16, 2015

Champagne Shuttle & Tours

© 2024 Champagne Shuttle Tours - All Rights Reserved |  Site Map  |  WebMail Login

Website Design and Development by: Pro Web Marketing

Champagne Shuttle Tours is committed to making this website's content accessible and user friendly to everyone. If you need assistance using our website, we are happy to help you at the points of contact listed on this page! We take your feedback seriously and will consider it as we evaluate ways to accommodate all our customers and our overall accessibility policies. Additionally, while we do not control such vendors, we strongly encourage vendors of third-party digital content to provide content that is accessible and user friendly.

Traverse City's Top Rated Wine Tour Experience

Top rated traverse city wine tours.

With over eight years of experience guiding tours in Northern Michigan, we know how hard you work all year, and this is your time to sit back and relax. That is why Wonderland Tours is dedicated to designing your trip for you and taking away the stress of planning an itenerary. We firmly believe Making Memories ...

Focus On Traveling, Focus On Fun

Professional staff.

With 8 years experience guiding tours in Northern Michigan, we will make sure that your time with us is an experience you never forget!

Spring Fever

Old mission peninsula wine tour, leelanau wine tour, google reviews 79 reviews .njhlmdaymwuxlnyxrpyypbwfnzxmvytuzgqowyxzjcyjdkyjnhotymeyyjfkztfinjeucgn { } .njhlmdaymwuxlnyxrpyypbwfnzxmvytuzgqowyxzjcyjdkyjnhotymeyyjfkztfinjeucgn:after{ ; ; } }.

Aaron is amazing! He’s incredible and very communicative! He knows all of the tips and tricks for touring around the area! So fun!

Such a great experience! Knowledge of the area and so friendly. We had a great day!

Aaron is the best! Super kind and helpful

Booked a tour for my best friend’s bachelorette party this past weekend. We loved every stop on the tour. Aaron did a great job at timing. We arrived at ... Read more

Aaron is a gem! Knowledgeable, easygoing, safe driver, and fun. What else could you asked for? Definitely would go on another wine tour with him!

Aaron was awesome! Super knowledgeable but also added to our girls weekend vibe. Loved this experience!

I literally couldn’t recommend Aaron enough! He was polite, on time, kind, and flexible. The car was clean and super roomy and if this is your vibe, he ... Read more

Aaron was a 10/10. I cannot say enough good things about him and the tour he took us on. So kind, so generous, so funny, and made us feel safe. We booked ... Read more

Aaron was so friendly, accommodating, and had lots of great knowledge about the wineries. 10/10 recommend!

Aaron was an outstanding tour guide!!!! Can’t say enough positive things about our experience. Will be booking him again for future trips. Thank you Aaron!!

Areas Covered

Office location

Give us a call

Send us an email

• Merchant Policies
• Legal Notice

Wine and Beer Tours uses cookies to give you the best possible service. If you continue browsing, you agree to our use of cookies. More details can be found in our terms and conditions .

• [email protected]
• 231-499-2656 Call or Text
• Open Facebook account in a new tab.
• Open Instagram account in a new tab.
• Open Twitter account in a new tab.
• Open Tripadvisor account in a new tab.

Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours

Tours and transportation services in Traverse City, Michigan, including limousine and wedding transportation!

6 Reasons To Book With Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours

Custom Itinerary

Pickup at your locations

Custom drink-ware

Free Vehicle Upgrades

Trip insurance available

Airport and shuttle services available

For More Details, Check Out Our FAQ Page

Our Services

Transportation services, wine & beer tours.

We are passionate about providing memorable experiences for you and your guests. That goal is aided by the unbelievable wineries, breweries, and people here in Traverse City. You won’t find another place in the world with miles of freshwater beaches, a myriad of restaurants to choose from, and a pace of life that reflects how the locals live.

Have Questions?

Protect Your Trip »

3 top-rated traverse city wine tours with transportation.

Sample some of the Great Lakes State's best vino on these trips.

Top-Rated Traverse City Wine Tours

Getty Images

You'll get to see some of Michigan's incredible scenery during your wine tour.

Michigan's burgeoning wine scene is impressive – it boasts more than 140 wineries throughout the state. There are more than 50 varietals grown with approximately 4,000 acres devoted to winemaking grapes. The mitten-shaped state's five distinct American Viticultural Areas have their own unique terroir and are located in the northern part of the mitt and the southwest corner of the state.

Traverse City 's location in northern lower Michigan is particularly favorable to winemaking and sits near two of the state's AVAs: Leelanau Peninsula and Old Mission Peninsula. Located on the shores of both East Grand Traverse and West Grand Traverse bays, the city sits on the 45th parallel, which is home to the Rhone Valley and Bordeaux in France and Italy's Piedmont region.

The Traverse Wine Coast area is recognized primarily for its white wines, and there are approximately 40 wineries where you can sip and savor the local vintages. Traverse City is also known for its breweries and cideries, so some of the wine tours on this list may offer those options as well.

After consulting both expert opinion and traveler sentiment, U.S. News identified the following outings as the best available. These three tours highlight the best of Traverse City's thriving wine and spirits industries.

The Magic Shuttle Bus – 5 Hour Traverse City Wine Tour on the Old Mission Peninsula

Price: From $99 Duration: 5 hours

Sit back, relax and enjoy the views on this five-hour winery tour to the Old Mission Peninsula. This round-trip excursion departs from Traverse City and includes hourlong stops at four different wineries. Most patrons highly recommend the tour, especially for first-time visitors unfamiliar with the Old Mission Peninsula. Along with the wines, they also praise the driver, who they describe as entertaining and knowledgeable.

Tours depart Sunday through Friday at noon and Saturday at 11 a.m. The company's limo-style bus holds a maximum of 20 passengers. Ticket prices begin at $99 per person and increase on Fridays and Saturdays. Ticket costs do not include the cost of the wine tastings, which range between $5 and $10 at each winery. The wineries also offer wines by the glass or flight, plus snacks like charcuterie boards, though patrons may also bring their own lunches (there's a cooler available on the bus). The Magic Shuttle Bus also offers another wine tour to the Leelanau Peninsula and a five-hour Traverse City Brewery Tour. The company also runs wine and brewery tours out of Grand Rapids .

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours – Old Mission Peninsula Join-In Tour

Price: From $69 Duration: 4 hours `

Hoping to sample more than just wine on your tour? This is the experience for you. During the four-hour tour, you'll stop at three wineries that produce both wine and hard cider. Though each tour is unique, you may visit Hawthorne Vineyards, Chateau Chantal or Bonobo Winery, among other locations. Patrons highly recommend the tour, applauding the friendly, accommodating drivers and staff and well-organized excursions.

This wine- and cider-sipping adventure is offered seven days a week, except on select holidays. The number of participants can vary depending on the bus size. The $69 fee includes water and snacks on the bus and round-trip transportation to Traverse City. Gratuities, tastings and food at the wineries costs extra. The company also offers private tours.

View & Book Tickes: Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours

Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours – Leelanau Peninsula Join-In Tour

Price: From $69 Duration: 4 hours

Visit three wineries along the scenic Leelanau Peninsula on this four-hour tour. Potential stops include 45 North Vineyard and Winery, Willow Vineyards and Rove Estate. Groups average about 14 people but can be as large as 24 patrons on busy weekends. The company offers complimentary water and chips on the tour, but participants are also permitted to bring their own snacks. Patrons praise the drivers for their knowledge and engaging personalities. They also say they have just as much fun on the bus as they do at the wineries.

Tours operate daily, except on select holidays. Prices start at $69 per person and include round-trip transportation to select Traverse City hotels . Wine flights or glasses of wine are an additional cost (about $8 to $10 per person at each stop). Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours also offers a wine tour of Old Mission Peninsula and a happy hour tour, among other options.

View & Book Tickets: Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours

Frequently Asked Questions

Most wineries in Traverse City are open year-round. Seasonal hours may apply, so wine lovers should plan their visits ahead of time.

You may also be interested in:

• Top Romantic Getaways in Michigan
• Top Things to Do in Michigan
• Best Places to Visit in Michigan
• Best Beaches in Michigan

Tags: Michigan , Tours , Travel , Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Flight canceled or delayed what to do.

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Luggage Brands

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

Turn Your Tour into a

Grand Experience!

Winery, brewery & distillery tours.

Northern Michigan wineries, breweries, and distilleries are gaining acclaim – including national and international awards – for libations that blend tradition with innovation. Our winery tours , brewery tours , and distillery tours let you choose from among nearly 50 establishments in Traverse City and on Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula. Don’t worry – we’ll help you pick the perfect stops for your private group tour.

Public Join-In Tours Are a Great Option

Individuals, couples, and small groups love our public join-in winery tours , where you mingle with other wine lovers aboard our luxurious Mercedes-Benz high-top shuttles as you travel to wineries. It’s a fabulous way to make new friends!

Winery Tours

Brewery tours, distillery tours, check our rave reviews.

Want confirmation that Grand Traverse Tours is your best choice for winery, brewery, and distillery tours? Check our fabulous reviews on Google , Yelp , Trip Advisor , and Facebook .

WE HAD SO MUCH FUN!

Nothing but good vibes and good times, i cannot rave enough about grand traverse tours, we are for sure coming back next year, we will never use another company for our wine tours in traverse city.

Michelle S.

You will not be disappointed

Limo services & more.

Our Traverse City limo service is perfect for weddings , bachelor and bachelorette parties , corporate and executive travel , airport travel, or any special event. We provide dependable, upscale, worry-free transportation – all at a surprisingly affordable price.

CHECK OUT THE FUN! #MIGrandTraverseTour

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Interactive Map

Plan Your Trip

The Midwest’s #1 Wine Region!

You can stop searching… You have found the #1 wine destination in the midwest.

VISIT OUR WINERIES

EXPLORE EVERYTHING WE HAVE TO OFFER

The Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail includes over 20 award winning wineries. From the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes to the West Arm of Grand Traverse Bay, you will experience the amazing beauty that the Leelanau Peninsula has to offer. You will find quaint towns, crystal clear lakes and streams, abundant wildlife and rolling terrain that includes vineyards, farms and forests.

CHEERS UPCOMING EVENTS

SEE & DO PLAN YOUR TRIP

ONLINE SHOP OUR WINES

UPCOMING EVENTS

2023 Events Schedule!

Click Here!

NEWS ON THE WINE TRAIL

The LP Wine Pass is now Available!

THE LP WINE PASS IS AVAILABLE ON OUR LEELANAU PENINSULA WINE TRAIL APP. DOWNLOAD THE APP TO YOUR PHONE, PURCHASE OUR PASS THROUGH THE APP AND THEN REDEEM AT EACH PARTNER LOCATION! THE COST IS ONLY $65 PER LP WINE PASS. OVER A $400 VALUE!

 Jan 13, 2022

Winter is here for real!

After Mother Nature threatened to give us a "green" Christmas, we have since been blessed or cursed (however you want to see it) with colder temps and plenty of snow. A few of our wineries have beautiful trails for snowshoeing, cross country skiing and more. Here...

 Jan 12, 2022

LOVE WINE? FOLLOW US

BLACK STAR FARMS

BRENGMAN BROTHERS

CICCONE VINEYARD & WINERY

MAWBY SPARKLING & BIGLITTLE WINES

ROVE ESTATE

SHADY LANE CELLARS

TWO K FARMS

45 NORTH VINEYARD & WINERY

AURORA CELLARS

DUNE BIRD WINERY

LEELANAU CELLARS

SILVER LEAF VINEYARD & WINERY

VERTERRA WINERY

AMORITAS VINEYARDS

BEL LAGO VINEYARD & WINERY

BOATHOUSE VINEYARDS

CHATEAU FONTAINE

CHERRY REPUBLIC WINERY

FRENCH VALLEY VINEYARD

GOOD HARBOR VINEYARDS

VISIT OUR WINE REGIONS

Let's Be Friends!

Do you love wine? Sign up and receive all the latest events, news and deals with the Leelanau Wine Peninsula!

CHEERS! YOUR LIFE IS ABOUT TO GET WAY BETTER:)

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content

Wine Tours Near Traverse City MI, Beer Tours, Cider Tours

Let The Fun Begin!

Wine, Cider & Beer Tours

NoMI Tours offers multiple Private Tours around Traverse City, MI. We specialize in Wine, Cider, and Beer Tours and visit both Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas. Let us help create unforgettable memories!

Other Services

Are you interested in services outside of a Wine, Cider, or Beer Tour? We can provide transportation to many Events & Venues. Give us a call and leave the driving to us!

We offer a fun, safe way to visit many of the great wineries, cideries, and breweries in the area.  Book online or give us a call at (231) 636-1123 to book your private tour today!

Premium Shuttle Bus

Wineries, Cideries, and Breweries in Leelanau, Grand Traverse Counties

Wineries we visit

Learn More Wineries we visit

Cideries we visit

Learn More Cideries we visit

Breweries we visit

Learn More Breweries we visit

5.0 187 reviews

• Sydni Sexton S ★★★★★ March 2, 2024 Rachel was SO fun & the BEST guide ever!!!!!
• Martina D ★★★★★ March 2, 2024 AMAZING!!!! Rachel was great! So much fun. She was very informational and entertained our group. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!!!
• Sarah J ★★★★★ February 25, 2024 Rachel from NOMI Tours was incredible!! She drove myself and my friends/family to multiple wineries for my bachelorette party! She kept us on schedule, made sure we were checked in to each winery for our scheduled time, and kept … More the party going on the bus. We felt so well taken care of and even asked her to take videos/photos of us at each winery. The best experience and hospitality. I would highly recommend booking her for your tour!
• Joe P ★★★★★ November 13, 2023 NoMI Tours was fantastic! Everyone in our group had such a fun time. Rachel was a great tour guide and driver, and everything was super smooth. The bus looked brand new. We will definitely book again with NoMI Tours.
• Jane M ★★★★★ November 1, 2023 Everyone in our group loved our tour. David did a great job getting us into and served at each winery, and the bus was perfect- clean and comfortable. We'll be back with NoMi!
• Katie D ★★★★★ October 21, 2023 So fun. RESPECTFUL. Kept our girl group together and safe. ON TIME AND INFORMATIVE. Never felt like it was about the money. Genuinely gracious family owned business. We will call them again, no doubt.
• Alexis T ★★★★★ September 17, 2023 David was such a great host and driver! He guided us at each winery for where we needed to go and checked our group into each stop. It was a perfect activity for my bachelorette party! So relaxing and laid back!
• K ★★★★★ September 12, 2023 Highly suggest using NoMI Tours for any shuttle service needs!! David was an excellent driver, bus host and very polite, helpful and courteous.
• Linnea R ★★★★★ July 30, 2023 I can’t say enough good things about our NoMi Tour with David! Extremely quick and easy communication before and after booking our tour a few months ahead of the actual date. Very knowledgeable about my questions about which winery/brewery … More spots. Clear directions for pick up and we were pleasantly surprised with water bottles and koozies when we boarded! Such a comfy and cool (AC) ride in the bus. Bluetooth for music too! I loved how we had reservations at locations that took them and how David found us when we had 10-15 minutes left at a spot and offered to take a group picture. He was very kind and accommodating and made it a fabulous experience!!!
• Laura L ★★★★★ July 28, 2023 David was amazing and we had the most special winery tour ever!!! We went with David to 4 wineries and it was an absolute perfect experience with timing. He was attentive to detail and helped our group ensure we made it to all … More winery’s we planned out for our friends birthday! Could not recommend this more!!
• Michelle A ★★★★★ July 9, 2023 This was such a nice tour. Our tour guide made everything more fun too. He was so sweet, patient, respectful of our time and very personable. We had so much fun. We also enjoyed hearing his story on how him and his wife started … More their business as touring people around to the beautiful winery’s of Petoskey. Highly recommend using this your company and will defiantly use it in the future when planning for events.
• J Y ★★★★★ July 1, 2023 So Friendly! So professional! Safe driving! The wine tour I went on with family and friends was so great! Made my trip to Traverse City so memorable. Our driver Rachel was an absolute star! I highly recommend this company!
• Wendy W ★★★★★ June 26, 2023 I absolutely loved my experience with NoMi Tours. Rachel could not have been nicer, the travel between wineries was smooth, and I definitely appreciated being picked off and dropped off at our AirBnB. I was also impressed with … More the selection of wineries and being provided an itinerary that I could share with the group. We had the best time on my bachelorette weekend. Thank you again!
• Dennis Vander K ★★★★★ June 21, 2023 David was an excellent driver, photographer and all around host for our winery tour group. We had a great time and made many memories. Thank you!
• Raquel L ★★★★★ June 6, 2023 Rachel and David are amazing! They made my winery tour extremely enjoyable. I’ve used their services twice and both times were 10/10. Definitely recommend!!!
• Courtney R ★★★★★ June 4, 2023 It’s fantastic to be able to support a family owned business and even better when they provide an above and beyond 5 star experience! Highly recommend!
• Kaitlyn P ★★★★★ May 30, 2023 We had an absolutely wonderful experience with David over Memorial Day weekend. Not only did he come to the house in Glen Arbor to pick us up, but he also suggested we head out on our adventure a little early since it was a holiday … More weekend and the wineries would likely be busy. He helped keep us on schedule without being obnoxious about it and took as many pictures as we asked. My aunt is the one who booked the tour so I cannot comment too much on that process, but she had nothing but good things to say. This is a wonderful small business that I highly recommend.
• Leana C ★★★★★ May 8, 2023 Our wine tour was amazing! Rachel was such a fun driver, she was very accommodating and so helpful through the entire booking process. I would recommend NoMi Tours to anyone looking for a fun wine tour experience and I would definitely … More book again!
• Ashley M ★★★★★ March 4, 2023 We’ve used many, many different bus companies for wine tours in Traverse City and this was by far our favorite. David and Rachel are absolute gems. You can tell they care so deeply and enjoy what they do. We had a blast on our … More tour. David drove for us and he was great! And he takes awesome group pictures!
• Claire S ★★★★★ January 2, 2023 NoMI tours provided an awesome NYE wine tour experience for our group! From start to finish their communication, professionalism, and demeanor was incredible! Rachel was prompt to respond to all our booking emails and David was … More an exceptionally nice and fun driver. The company's attention to detail is top notch and they are one of the only tour groups in the area that will pick you up right from your house! We cannot recommend them enough! top notch service and attention to detail
• Kelsey F ★★★★★ December 31, 2022 David was so professional and fun! The perfect mix, for having a good time and getting to all the beautiful locations you admire to go! I would recommend this service to anyone who wants to have the best time up north, while seeing … More the best scenery you can in Traverse City!
• Theresa M ★★★★★ November 6, 2022 Rachel planned out our day and David was an amazing host! David kept us on track from the start , making sure we had the best wine tour possible! Keeping 14 ladies on a time schedule is impressive while also being considerate … More and helpful!! Thank you,Rachel and David, for an awesome day of tasting! We appreciate all you did to make sure the experience was amazing!!!
• Sarah S ★★★★★ July 17, 2022 Rachel was phenomenal! We had so much fun with her on our bachelorette wine tour. She kept us on schedule and had such a great personality. She made sure to be our own personal photographer for the day so we could capture all … More the fun we had. Prior to booking she had great communication with me to make sure we had the best trip and stops planned for the day. Drop off and pick up at our Airbnb was so easy as well. Will absolutely be recommending NoMi tours to everyone!
• Tina B ★★★★★ May 9, 2022 Highly recommend NoMI Tours! Had a fun family trip visiting cideries and breweries. Owners Rachel and David were professional, attentive and tailored locations near to our Airbnb at Crystal Mountain. Belting out tunes in the … More bus was an added bonus. Thanks, Rachel, for such a fun playlist! We will certainly be back for a future tour!

Book your adventure now!

7 Reasons Why You’ll Love This Equestrian-Inspired Inn In Michigan’s Wine Country

B lack Star Farms on Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula is a 10-room equestrian-inspired inn in Michigan’s wine country, situated among the rolling vineyards. The 160-acre estate is just 15 minutes from Traverse City, so you can choose to spend a short stay entirely on the inn’s grounds or explore the region a bit longer.

Whether you plan your escape to decompress or explore new wineries, here are seven reasons why I love Black Star Farms , the equestrian-inspired inn and winery.

Thank you to Traverse City Tourism for hosting my visit. All opinions are my own.

The bed-and-breakfast-style Inn at Black Star Farms features a stunning entryway with a grand staircase, high ceilings with chandeliers, and white polished floors sporting the Black Star Farms logo. When I arrived, they had a bottle of house wine waiting. The food and wine theme was prevalent throughout my stay, with the chef’s fresh breakfast served in the dining room each morning and the nightly hospitality hour that included small bites and wine. Each guest also receives a complimentary wine flight or glass of wine in the tasting room.

The innkeepers have named each of the 10 rooms after a star. Many rooms feature fireplaces, sitting areas, or suites; perfect for a couples romantic getaway weekend. Plan ahead, as the inn has a no-pet policy, and all guests must be at least 18 years old.

Pro Tip: The inn doesn’t have an elevator, so reserve the Polaris or Mira Rooms on the first floor if a grand staircase is a challenge.

2. Bistro Polaris

Even if you’re not staying at the inn, Bistro Polaris is a perfect place to enjoy lunch while exploring the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail. When I visit Traverse City, I plan my wine-tasting stops at Black Star Farms around midday to have one of Estate Chef John Korycki’s Mediterranean-inspired, farm-to-table lunches. Michigan is known for its fruit, particularly in the Traverse City area, where cherries are the star of the show. So, when deciding on dessert, I recommend the fruit crumble and cross your fingers that it’s cherry.

What To Order At Bistro Polaris

Starter: The focaccia bites; the house-made rosemary focaccia with roasted garlic hummus, caramelized onion olive tapenade, and roasted red peppers with eggplant and basil 

Entrée: A wood-fired pizza; consider the Salsiccia with San Marzano tomato, mozzarella fior di latte, fennel sausage, red onion, and Pecorino Romano

Wine: Bedazzled Sparklin g wine; a dry wine with fresh apple and pear

If you’re in town on Sunday, plan to purchase a ticketed three-course brunch. While walk-ins are welcome between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., buying a ticket online is best to ensure you have a table.

Pro Tip: Black Star Farms has two tasting rooms at Suttons Bay and Old Mission Peninsula. This article describes the activities available at their Suttons Bay location.

3. Wine And Spirits

Black Star Farms offers award-winning wine and spirits from locally grown fruit. They provide more than 50 wines, spirits, and ciders. The winery features vineyards producing various grape varietals, including chardonnay, riesling, pinot noir, merlot, and cabernet franc. The region’s unique microclimate near Lake Michigan provides an ideal environment for growing these grapes.

Their signature spirit is the pear eau de vie . Their fruit-based brandies, known as eau de vie -style, are a staple in some European countries. Eau de vie , French for “water of life,” are clear spirits and characterize fermented fruits’ pure essence. Additionally, they make barrel-aged brandies from cherries and apples aged in French and American oak. These brandies have the complexity of whiskey.

4. Progressive Food And Wine Tasting

A fun onsite activity offered in the winter and spring is the three-stop food and wine tasting. The tasting illustrated the magic of pairing food and wine. Our first stop was the equestrian-themed bar area at the inn. They paired the first course of parmesan crisps, smoked whitefish dip, and sweet potato cashews with a 2020 Arcturos Pinot Blanc. The wine was medium-bodied, tasting of lemon and green apple with a crisp finish.

Our second stop was the wine caves, where they barrel-age the wine. Here, we had a meat and cheese charcuterie board paired with a pinot noir. Finally, for dessert, we stopped at the Barrel Room to sample the 2018 Arcturos Winter Harvest Riesling, complimenting an apricot-topped custard. This progressive food and wine tasting adds a fun twist as it integrates a tour of the grounds. I loved the behind-the-scenes look at the wine cave in a romantic candle-lit setting.

Pro Tip: The progressive food and wine tastings are only from January–May.

5. Summer Music On The Terrace

The Suttons Bay tasting room has a terrace patio, where I enjoyed the best of Michigan’s summer and the vineyard views while sampling one of Black Star Farms’ cocktails made from their spirits. I have to admit the seasonal slushies are a favorite of mine. To add to the ambiance, they offer live music on Thursday evenings. They feature a variety of music types, including soul, folk, and rock. Music on the terrace is fun for people of all ages.

6. Hiking Trails

The inn offers four hiking trails to explore during your visit. At almost a mile and a half, the Green Trail takes you past the wine caves, barns, and stables, around the vineyards, and through the forest. In summer, you can hike, bike, and ride horseback, while in winter, you can use the trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. You’ll also find three shorter trails. The courses are the perfect ways to get out and enjoy the grounds while getting some exercise.

Pro Tip: The horses in the stables at Black Star Farms are privately boarded and aren’t available for lessons or riding. You may wander by the paddocks but observe all posted signs.

7. Local Attractions

If you’re staying longer than a couple of nights, you’ll want to explore the area. Some of the region’s must-see attractions include Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Village at Grand Traverse Commons, and Dennos Museum Center.

You’ll find a variety of activities at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore , from hiking and beach time to the Dune Climb. The best times to avoid crowds are before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. Exploring the lakeshore and the Scenic Pierce Stocking Drive can take an entire day.

You can spend another half-day exploring the Village at Grand Traverse Commons , one of the nation’s most extensive historic preservation and adaptive reuse redevelopment projects. Once the Traverse City State Hospital, today, the facility has become apartments, shops, and restaurants, creating a new community in this former place of healing.

After lunch, check out the Dennos Museum Center , on the campus of Northwestern Michigan College, known nationally for its collection of Inuit art.

Pro Tip: The Village at Grand Traverse Commons offers several tours that take you through the 1885 brick steam tunnels and the rest of the grounds, providing insight into the history of this facility.

For information on exploring other parts of the Traverse City area, check out these additional articles:

• 7 Must-Try Traverse City, Michigan Restaurants
• 7 Must-Try Amazing Wineries To Experience On Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula
• Weekend Getaway To Traverse City, Michigan: The Best Things To See And Do

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

• Top Things To Do
• Art Galleries
• Historic Movie Theatres
• Interlochen Center for the Arts
• Free Things to Do
• Historical Sites
• Lighthouses
• Scavenger Hunt
• Spring Break
• Downtown Traverse City
• Farmer's Markets & U-Picks
• Grand Traverse Commons
• Malls & Shopping Centers
• Spa & Salon
• Cherry Blossom Tours
• Fall Color Tour
• Scenic Drives
• Tours & Exhibits
• Dog Beaches/Pet Friendly
• Beaches Around the Region
• Golf Courses
• Golf Packages
• State Parks
• Trails & Nature Walks
• Green For Good Challenge
• Kayak, Canoe & SUP
• Jet Skiing & Rentals
• Ice Skating Hockey
• Skiing & Snowboarding
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Snowmobiling
• Snowshoeing
• Tubing & Sledding
• Serendipitous Adventure
• Annual Events
• Traverse City Events This Weekend
• Pride Week in Traverse City
• Winter Events
• Traverse City Uncorked
• National Cherry Festival
• Traverse City Film Festival
• International Fireworks Championship
• Holiday Events
• Concerts & Live Music
• Sporting Events & Races
• Wine Events
• Add Your Event
• Places to Eat
• Outdoor Dining
• Eat Like a Local
• Farm to Fork
• Food Trucks
• Kid Friendly
• Restaurant Guide
• Waterfront Dining
• Traverse Wine Coast
• Distilleries
• Traverse City Beer Week
• Man Vs. Draft
• Taprooms & Taverns
• Bed & Breakfast
• Cabins & Cottages
• Condominiums
• Downtown Locations
• Historical Places to Stay
• Hotels & Motels
• Hotels on the Water
• Winter Accommodation Special Offers
• Traverse City Uncorked Lodging Packages
• Pet Friendly
• Vacation Rentals
• Digital Guide Request
• Enewsletter Signup
• Accessibility
• A Very Cherry Passport
• Climate & Weather
• Driving Distances
• General Information
• Benzie County
• Leelanau County
• Gift Certificates
• Ask-a-Nurse
• Virtual Urgent Care
• Local Chambers
• Local News Outlets
• Places of Worship
• Public Safety
• Relocation Information
• Traverse City Pride Week
• Dog-Friendly Activities
• Pet-Friendly Hotels
• Beer & Wine Weekend
• Grand Traverse County
• Explore the Sleeping Bear Dunes
• Outdoor Adventure
• Family Time
• Girlfriend Getaway
• Guy's Weekend
• Lighthouse Tour
• Romantic Getaway
• Personal Wine Tour
• Airport Info
• Printable Maps
• Visitor Center
• Wedding Venues & Lodging
• Wedding Resources
• Getting a License
• Request a Wedding Guide
• Economic Impact
• Hospitality Awards
• Staff Directory
• Full Service Venues
• Unique Venues
• Submit an RFP
• Meetings Resources
• Request Photos
• Meeting Planners Guide Request
• Spouse & Guest Programs
• Connecting & Team Building
• A Meeting in Vacation's Clothing
• Suggested Itineraries
• Group Tour Planner Request
• Tour Planner Assistance Form
• Tour Support & Services
• Media Photo Library
• Press Release Room
• Request Our Assistance
• Traverse City Accolades
• Sign Up for the Meetings Newsletter
• Sports Events
• Wedding Venues
• Wedding Lodging Requests
• FAM On Demand

5 Reasons to Take a Wine Tour This Winter

Thursday, January 9, 2020 1:00 PM by Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail

As if you really need one… 

Wine tours can be a lot of things, but boring is not one of them. They are dynamic, educational, inspiring, and memorable and they’re a great way to celebrate and commemorate special occasions or shop for your new favorite wines.

On the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail , our compact geography makes it easy and achievable to tour most of our member wineries in one day, assuming you have proper transportation and consume responsibly. This allows you to assemble a tour group with eclectic tastes and with ten wineries in total, everyone is sure to find something they love. Our proximity to Traverse City also provides the opportunity to tack a wine tour onto any number of other reasons to visit the area like skiing , special events, or conferences . 

While you don’t ever need an excuse to take a wine tour, as it’s an affordable and unique way to spend a day. Here are some of our favorite answers to “so what brings you in today?”: 

1. My Wine Cellar is Bare!   

Maybe you don’t have a wine cellar per se, but if your countertop wine rack is looking a little lonely, a wine tour is a fun and more involved way of deciding how to stock back up. Progressively tasting through the wine trail allows you to compare wines closely and identify your favorites. Tasting room staff will help you hone in on which wines meet your preference and can also help you select wines to let age, and those to consume right away. When you find wines you like, be sure to take advantage of case discounts! 

2. We Needed a Getaway   

Whether a vacation or a staycation, wine tours are an ideal way to slow life down and reconnect with your spouse, partner, or friends. Old Mission Peninsula is home to several quaint and charming bed and breakfasts (some at the wineries themselves) that can serve as your basecamp for a weekend of wine tasting. 

3. We’re Getting Married!   

If the holiday season brought you or a loved one some new jewelry in the form of an engagement ring, a wine tour is a perfect way to come together and celebrate the beginning of a new chapter. Nothing says congratulations like clinking a glass of sparkling wine together as you gaze out rolling snow-covered vineyards against the blue water backdrop of East and West Grand Traverse Bay. 

4. It’s My Birthday!   

While we can’t guarantee the tasting room staff will sing you Happy Birthday awkwardly in front of all your friends, we can assure you that a wine tour will make your birthday feel special. Consider opting for a private tour, available at many of our member locations, for an exclusive behind-the-scenes view into the winemaking process. 

5. I’ve Never Done a Wine Tour  

What better time to try something new than at the beginning of a new year? Wine tours are a great intro to the wine world and no prior experience or knowledge is required. Tasting room staff are trained and educated on the wines they serve and on the winemaking process and welcome questions and conversations about all things wine. If you’re brand new to wine, consider using the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail Winter Flight Pass. This pass entitles you to exclusive tastings, discounts, and specials at each of the 10 unique wineries. 

Whatever your reason, wine tours can be taken at any time of year and any day of the week. Whether you’re celebrating, ready to learn, or just because, the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail welcomes you.

Author: Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail

Jutting north between the azure arms of Lake Michigan's Grand Traverse Bay lies Old Mission Peninsula. Situated at the globe's 45th parallel – an ideal climate for growing varietal wine grapes – the ten distinct wineries that comprise the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail and this stunning appellation have been well recognized by wine enthusiasts around the world. 

Plan Your Trip

• © 2024 Traverse City Tourism
• 101 West Grandview Parkway, Traverse City, MI 49684
• T: 231-947-1120 or 1-800-872-8377 
• [email protected]
• Privacy Policy
• Members Login

Cookies are used for measurement, ads and optimization. By continuing to use our site you agree to our  privacy policy .