Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tours
Explore Leelanau County on a Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour. The Leelanau Peninsula is often called the ‘Little Finger’ of the Michigan Mitten as it juts out into Lake Michigan and is separated from the rest of the state by West Grand Traverse Bay. Winding country roads take you through stunning scenery throughout all seasons. The Leelanau Peninsula is home to steep hills, untouched nature and stunning dunes that make for a unique backdrop to wineries of the region. Safely travel Leelanau wine country and arrive in style with private winery tours and reservations for your group through us.
The Wineries of Leelanau Peninsula
Leelanau County usually brings to mind two things: food and wine. Leelanau Peninsula’s unique topography and proximity to two different bodies of water create unique microclimates that are ideal for thriving grape vines. Add to that our extended daylight summer hours, and you get a stage for delighted travelers and award-winning grapes that rival world-famous wine regions. You will find many things to fall in love with during one of our wine tours… and the wine is just one of those things. Lets us take you on tour of the wineries on the beautiful Leelanau Peninsula located just west of Grand Traverse West Bay. We have personal relationships with many of the wineries on Leelanau Peninsula and can help your group book private tours and tastings for the day.
Leelanau Peninsula Winery Locations
To make it easier to plan your winery tour we have gathered a list of winery locations across Leelanau Peninsula. Each winery is filled with passionate winemakers with varying backgrounds that include entrepreneurs, fourth-generation farmers and corporate businessmen. Taste wine grown from internationally acclaimed varietals like Pinot Noir, Pinot Grigio, Riesling and Cabernet Franc. We have group and custom private wine tours for all palates.
Rove
Rove Estate Vineyard & Winery, located on the Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, offers a captivating wine-tasting experience. Perched on one of the highest points in the area, Rove Estate provides breathtaking views alongside its exceptional wines. Specializing in varietals like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Rosé, this family-owned winery focuses on quality and local terroir. The inviting tasting room and scenic outdoor patio create a perfect setting for visitors to enjoy high-quality wines in a stunning Northern Michigan landscape.
45 North North Vineyard
45 North Vineyard & Winery, located in Lake Leelanau near Traverse City, offers a memorable wine-tasting experience. Known for its diverse selection of handcrafted wines, including Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc, 45 North showcases the best of Northern Michigan’s wine country. The modern yet rustic tasting room and scenic outdoor patio provide a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy these high-quality wines while taking in beautiful vineyard views. It’s an ideal destination for wine enthusiasts seeking a unique and delightful experience.
Black Star Farms
Black Star Farms, located on the Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, is a renowned winery known for its diverse and award-winning wines. Set on a picturesque estate, this winery offers a wide selection of varietals, including Pinot Gris, Cabernet Franc, and Late Harvest Riesling. Visitors can enjoy tastings in an elegant tasting room or relax on the scenic patio with vineyard views. With its commitment to quality and beautiful surroundings, Black Star Farms provides a memorable wine-tasting experience in Northern Michigan.
Aurora Cellars
Aurora Cellars, located on the Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, is a boutique winery known for its exceptional wines. Specializing in estate-grown varietals like Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, Aurora Cellars offers a refined tasting experience. Guests can enjoy their wines in a cozy, rustic tasting room or on a beautiful outdoor patio with stunning vineyard views. It’s the perfect spot for wine enthusiasts seeking high-quality, locally crafted wines in a picturesque Northern Michigan setting.
Brengman Brothers
Brengman Brothers, nestled on the Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, stands out for its commitment to sustainable viticulture and exceptional handcrafted wines. This family-owned winery excels with its unique varietals like Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Riesling, and the rare Auxerrois. The tasting room, set within a beautiful, architecturally striking building, offers an intimate and educational wine-tasting experience. Guests can enjoy the serene vineyard views from the inviting patio, making it a must-visit for those seeking a distinctive and eco-friendly wine experience in Northern Michigan.
Shady Lane
Shady Lane Cellars, located on the Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, offers a charming and unique wine-tasting experience. Housed in a beautifully restored 100-year-old fieldstone tasting room, this boutique winery specializes in cool-climate varietals like Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Gewürztraminer. Visitors can relax on the scenic outdoor patio, surrounded by picturesque vineyards and rolling hills. With its focus on quality, craftsmanship, and a welcoming atmosphere, Shady Lane Cellars provides an unforgettable destination for wine enthusiasts in Northern Michigan.
Bel Lago Vineyards
Bel Lago Vineyards & Winery, situated on the scenic Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, is renowned for its stunning lake views and exceptional wines. Known for its commitment to quality and innovation, Bel Lago produces a diverse range of wines, including unique varietals like Auxerrois, Pinot Grigio, and cherry wines. The welcoming tasting room and outdoor deck offer breathtaking vistas of Lake Leelanau, providing the perfect backdrop for enjoying their meticulously crafted wines. It’s a must-visit destination for wine lovers seeking a distinctive and picturesque experience in Northern Michigan.
Big Little Wines
Big Little Wines, located on the Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, is a boutique winery known for its small-batch, high-quality wines. Founded by two brothers, Big Little Wines focuses on crafting unique, expressive varietals like Pinot Gris, Cabernet Franc, and sparkling wines. The intimate tasting room provides a cozy, friendly atmosphere, perfect for savoring their innovative and meticulously produced wines. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to discover distinctive wines in a charming, personal setting in Northern Michigan.
Chateau Fontaine
Chateau Fontaine, located on the picturesque Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, is a charming, family-owned winery celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere and award-winning wines. Known for its exceptional varietals such as Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Auxerrois, Chateau Fontaine prides itself on quality and craftsmanship. The cozy tasting room and beautiful outdoor spaces offer a relaxing environment to enjoy these meticulously crafted wines. It’s a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts seeking a friendly, intimate experience in the heart of Northern Michigan’s wine country.
L Mawby Vineyards
Mawby Vineyards, located on the Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, is renowned for its exceptional sparkling wines. Specializing in méthode champenoise and méthode ancestrale, Mawby offers a delightful range of bubbly, including favorites like “Sex” and “Blanc de Blancs.” The vibrant tasting room and scenic outdoor patio provide a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy stunning vineyard views while savoring high-quality, locally produced sparkling wines. It’s a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and festive wine-tasting experience in Northern Michigan.
Good Harbor Vineyards
Good Harbor Vineyards, located on the Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, is a family-owned winery known for its approachable, high-quality wines. Specializing in varietals like Riesling, Pinot Grigio, and Fishtown White, Good Harbor combines tradition with innovation. The welcoming tasting room and scenic outdoor areas provide a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the vineyards while savoring delicious, locally crafted wines. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to experience the best of Northern Michigan’s wine country in a laid-back setting.
Boathouse Vineyard
Boathouse Vineyards, situated on the scenic Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, offers a unique waterfront wine-tasting experience. Specializing in estate-grown wines like Chardonnay, Merlot, and Pinot Noir, Boathouse combines quality with charm. The inviting tasting room and beautiful outdoor deck overlook Lake Leelanau, providing a serene and picturesque setting. Guests can enjoy high-quality, handcrafted wines while taking in the stunning lake views. It’s a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts seeking a relaxing and memorable experience in Northern Michigan.
Blustone Vineyards
Blustone Vineyards, located on the stunning Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, offers a modern and elegant wine-tasting experience. Known for its sleek, contemporary tasting room with floor-to-ceiling windows, Blustone provides breathtaking panoramic views of the vineyards and countryside. Specializing in cool-climate varietals like Pinot Blanc, Riesling, and Rosé, this boutique winery emphasizes quality and craftsmanship. It’s an ideal destination for wine lovers seeking a sophisticated atmosphere and meticulously crafted wines in Northern Michigan’s picturesque wine country.
Silver Leaf Vineyard
Silver Leaf Vineyards, nestled on the beautiful Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, offers a serene and intimate wine-tasting experience. This boutique winery is known for its handcrafted, small-batch wines, including favorites like Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Summer Breeze White. The cozy tasting room and inviting outdoor patio provide a relaxing setting to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and countryside. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking high-quality, locally produced wines in a peaceful, picturesque environment.
Green Bird Cellars
Green Bird Cellars, located in Northport near Traverse City, offers a charming and eco-friendly wine-tasting experience. This organic winery specializes in small-batch, handcrafted wines like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and their unique Apple Lavender wine. Set on a scenic farm, visitors can enjoy tastings in a rustic, relaxed atmosphere surrounded by lush gardens and orchards. It’s the ideal destination for those seeking high-quality, sustainable wines in a tranquil and picturesque Northern Michigan setting.
French Valley
French Valley Vineyards, situated in Suttons Bay on the Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, is renowned for its lakefront vineyard and diverse wine selection. This family-owned winery produces exceptional varietals like Pinot Gris, Cabernet Franc, and Lemberger, reflecting the unique terroir of Northern Michigan. The cozy tasting room and spacious outdoor patio provide a serene environment with breathtaking views of West Grand Traverse Bay. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking high-quality, estate-grown wines in a stunning, lakeside setting.
Chateau De Leelanau
Chateau de Leelanau, located on the picturesque Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, is celebrated for its award-winning wines and ciders. This family-owned winery focuses on crafting high-quality varietals like Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Merlot, as well as unique hard ciders. The welcoming tasting room offers a cozy atmosphere, while the outdoor patio provides stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and countryside. It’s an ideal spot for wine and cider enthusiasts seeking distinctive, locally produced beverages in a beautiful Northern Michigan setting.
Willow Vineyards
Willow Vineyards, perched on a scenic hillside on the Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, offers an intimate and picturesque wine-tasting experience. This boutique winery is known for its limited-production, high-quality wines such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc. The charming tasting room and outdoor terrace provide breathtaking views of the vineyards and West Grand Traverse Bay. With its focus on artisanal winemaking and a serene, romantic setting, Willow Vineyards is a perfect destination for those seeking exceptional wines in a tranquil environment.
Leelanau Cellars
Leelanau Cellars, located in Omena on the Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, is renowned for its wide variety of approachable and affordable wines. Established in 1974, this winery offers over 40 different wines, including the popular Winter White, the fruit-forward Witches Brew, and the crisp Tall Ship Chardonnay. The waterfront tasting room provides stunning panoramic views of Omena Bay, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. Known for its inclusive approach, Leelanau Cellars caters to all palates, making it a must-visit destination for wine lovers exploring Northern Michigan.
Laurentide Winery
Laurentide Winery, located in Lake Leelanau near Traverse City, is known for its commitment to producing high-quality wines from estate-grown grapes on its historic farm. Founded by husband-and-wife team Susan Braymer and Bill Braymer, the winery offers a carefully curated selection of varietals, including their award-winning Sauvignon Blanc, unoaked Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. The tasting room, set in a beautifully restored 1880s schoolhouse, provides an intimate and educational atmosphere. Guests can enjoy detailed explanations of the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of Northern Michigan’s terroir. Laurentide Winery is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts seeking a blend of history, quality, and personalized service.
Verterra Winery
Verterra Winery, located in Leland on the Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, offers a sophisticated and scenic wine-tasting experience. This family-owned winery is known for its dedication to producing high-quality, estate-grown wines, including the acclaimed Reserve Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, and Rosé. The modern tasting room in downtown Leland provides a chic, inviting atmosphere, while the vineyard’s breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding countryside add to the charm. Verterra Winery’s commitment to quality and its stunning location make it a standout destination for wine lovers seeking exceptional wines and picturesque scenery.
Raftshol Vineyards
Raftshol Vineyards, located on the picturesque Leelanau Peninsula near Traverse City, is a historic family-owned winery with roots dating back to the early 1930s. Known for pioneering the planting of red vinifera grapes in the region, Raftshol specializes in producing estate-grown varietals like Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and their signature Old Mission Peninsula Riesling. The tasting room, set in a charming and rustic barn, provides a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy tastings while learning about the vineyard’s rich history and commitment to traditional, minimalist winemaking practices. Raftshol Vineyards offers a genuine and memorable wine-tasting experience steeped in Northern Michigan’s winemaking heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
1What is the cost of a wine tour on Leelanau Peninsula?
The pricing for our public join-in Wine Tours on Leelanau Peninsula 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.
2What is the cancellation policy for Leelanau 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.
3How many wineries are on Leelanau Peninsula?
The Leelanau Peninsula in Michigan is renowned for its flourishing wine industry, boasting a total of 27 wineries. This picturesque region, known for its scenic beauty and favorable climate, has become a popular destination for wine enthusiasts and tourists looking to explore the world of Michigan wines.
4What types of wines are produced on Leelanau Peninsula?
The Leelanau Peninsula’s wineries produce a diverse range of wines, with a focus on cool-climate grape varieties such as Riesling, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Gewürztraminer. Additionally, the region is famous for its fruit wines, particularly cherry wine, which is a testament to the abundance of cherry orchards in the area.
5What is a "join-in" wine tour on Leelanua Peninsula?
Our daily join-in tours offer a fantastic opportunity to explore the wine country with fellow wine enthusiasts. These tours take you to three different wineries, each with its unique charm and offerings. They are open to the public, making them an ideal choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups. You can easily book a spot on one of our daily join-in tours through TripAdvisor, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
6Could you tailor the winery locations for a private tour on the Leelanau Peninsula?
With a private tour, you have the opportunity to customize your wine tour according to your preferences. During a private tour, you and your group will have the entire shuttle to yourselves, providing a private and intimate setting. You can select the wineries you wish to visit, and we will work closely with you to create a tailor-made itinerary that suits your tastes and interests. Private tours should be booked directly with Magic Shuttle Bus. Our team will assist you in planning every detail of your private wine tour.
7When and where does the Leelanau Peninsula "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
8How long is the "join-in" wine tour on Leelanau Peninsula?
The duration of our public join-in tours is set at 5 hours, during which you’ll have the opportunity to spend 80 minutes at each of the three different 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 Private Winery Tours
Mama Blue
Mama Blue happens to be our newest addition to our fleet! Mainly used for mid size wine tours, brewery tours, and weddings!
Book this VehicleBig Blue
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.
Book this VehiclePapa Blue
This big guy is equipped with a full bluetooth audio system, LED lighting, checkerboard flooring, social seating, and SO much room for activities!
Book this VehicleThe 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.
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