The Caradonnas put the word out in February that they were looking for a local investor to infuse some much-needed cash into the brewery to allow it to stay afloat and prepare for future growth. They were forced to impose temporary layoffs and halt beer production.

Last week, Owens was back in the brewery, cranking out a batch of O'Fallon's popular peach-flavored wheat ale, Wheach. That beer should be available on draft at St. Louis-area bars and restaurants in about two weeks; Wheach bottles and cans should begin to pop up even sooner, Owens said. The brewery also will have several beers ready to pour for next month's St. Louis Brewers Heritage Festival in Forest Park.

"I'm really excited to have our beer back out there, because I know people were wondering where it was and if we'd ever come back," Owens said.

Gorczyca said he recognizes the challenge of re-establishing the brand's presence.