USA, MO: Great Heart Brewing slated to open in Olivette in early 2025
The heart of St. Louis is about to get a taste of European tradition with the arrival of Great Heart Brewing (9514 Olive), slated to open in Olivette in early 2025. Founders John and Helena Valentine plan to blend German brewing techniques with Alpine hospitality to create an inviting community space, St. Louis Magazine reported on October 11.
Great Heart Brewing will offer classic European beer styles, including Helles, Pilsner, Weissbier, and Dunkel, brewed with traditional methods and carefully sourced ingredients. “We want people in Olivette to feel like they’re drinking these beers in a cozy beer hall in Germany,” Helena says. The couple’s attention to detail extends from the German hops to mimicking the exact water profiles of Munich.
One key element of authenticity will be the glassware, something often overlooked in the U.S. but essential in Germany. “In Europe, every beer is served in its proper glass, which enhances the experience,” John explains. “We’re bringing that tradition here. Each beer will have its glass designed to highlight its specific characteristics.” From Weissbier glasses to Pilsner flutes, the Valentines believe that using the right glassware elevates both the beer and the overall drinking experience.
John emphasizes the approachable nature of the beers. “These are full of flavor but not overpowering, perfect for sharing with friends,” he says.
The brewery will utilize decoction mashing and horizontal lagering, both time-honored techniques that contribute to the smoothness and depth of the beers. “It’s an old-school approach, but it adds body and character that’s hard to replicate,” John explains.
To complement the beer offerings, the Valentines have partnered with renowned local chef Jim Fiala and rising culinary star Tim Zenner. Fiala, known for his work at The Crossing and Acero, helped craft the overall concept for the Alpine-inspired menu, drawing on his deep knowledge of European cuisine. Zenner, who worked under Fiala at both establishments, will take on the day-to-day execution of the menu, ensuring that Great Heart’s kitchen delivers on its vision.
Expect soups, salads, and burgers topped with caramelized onions and melted raclette cheese. “We’re focused on fresh, high-quality ingredients," says Helena. "The menu will rotate seasonally, featuring local produce and ensuring there’s always something new for regulars to enjoy."
John adds, “We want the food to match the care we put into our beers—flavors that are approachable but crafted with intention.”
Beyond serving exceptional beer, the Valentines are focused on creating the warm, communal atmosphere they they've experienced in Germany. “We fell in love with the coziness of the beer halls there,” Helena says. “It wasn’t just about the beer; it was the feeling of belonging, of everyone coming together in a relaxed and welcoming space. We wanted to bring that spirit to St. Louis.”
The 8,010-square-foot space will feature communal tables designed to spark conversation, along with intimate booths for quieter gatherings. Upstairs, a lounge area with a fireplace will offer a cozy retreat. The goal is to create a space where people feel at home, whether they’re stopping by for a quick beer or spending the evening with friends. “We want Great Heart to be a place where people feel at home,” says Helena. “It’s all about that European coziness.”
John Valentine Jr. may come from one of the most well-known brewing families in the world—the Busch brewing dynasty—but his path to beer was uniquely his own. Although connected by blood to the family of Anheuser-Busch, John didn’t initially set out to follow that path. "I wanted to be a high school football coach," John says with a laugh. A chance internship at a small brewery in California, however, changed everything. “The hands-on artistry of brewing really grabbed me,” he says.
John’s brewing journey led him to the prestigious Siebel Institute in Chicago and the Doemens Academy in Munich, where he deepened his expertise in European beer styles. When he returned to St. Louis, he was ready to bring to life his vision—one rooted in craft, independent of his family legacy. “I’ve always admired the Busch family’s contributions to brewing, but I found my own passion for it,” John says. Great Heart Brewing is his opportunity to merge tradition with his journey.
Helena Valentine, raised in Bavaria near Munich, comes from a family of hop farmers. She’s been passionate about beer from a young age. “I grew up attending hop-farmer meetings with my dad, which gave me a real respect for the craft,” she says. Helena’s expertise in sourcing high-quality ingredients perfectly complements John’s brewing skills. Together, they’ve laid the foundation for Great Heart Brewing’s lineup of authentic European-style beers.
At its core, Great Heart Brewing is about fostering community. “We wanted to create a gathering spot for the people of Olivette,” John says. To build that sense of belonging, the couple plans to host soft openings for local residents, as well as community-focused events. Says John, “Our goal is to be a place where people come to meet, share stories, and enjoy great beer.”
11 October, 2024
