For almost two decades, Houston, Texas was home base for Vineyard Underground’s Fritz Westover and his family. After graduate school and early work in Virginia, Houston became the launchpad for consulting across Texas, California, Georgia, and beyond. The only real requirement was access to a major airport and solid internet, which Houston delivered very well.
Over time, though, the pull of a different lifestyle grew stronger. The family began to picture a place with more mountains and less humidity, where skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking were part of everyday life. Denver, Colorado checked every box. It offered a fresh setting for their son to begin high school, easy airport access for frequent vineyard travel, and a climate that makes it easier to spend time outdoors.
What This Move Means For Growers
While the scenery has changed, the level of grower support has not. Consulting, education, and virtual programming continue as before, now powered by a home base that brings more energy and inspiration. The goal remains the same: help grape growers be better grape growers, using research-based guidance that fits real-world vineyard challenges.
Because his consulting has always depended more on air travel and internet than on a specific city, the shift to Denver does not interrupt grower support. If anything, the new environment brings extra energy and fresh ideas that feed directly into the guidance he provides.
Looking Ahead
The focus remains on helping grape growers spot problems sooner, make better decisions, and improve vineyard performance year after year. With a home base that encourages more time outdoors and more space to think, Fritz is committed to continuing the work that matters most: helping growers everywhere become better grape growers.
