Science, Sensory, and Shelf Stability: Panel Session - Ginposium 2026
Gary Spedding
Brewing & Distilling Analytical Services LLC
Jamie Baxter
Craft Distilling Services
Tony Aiken
Brewing & Distilling Analytical Services LLC
Exploring the Frontiers of Gin Formulation
This interactive panel brings together three distinct approaches to gin formulation: the pure scientist, the applied scientist, and the experimental “trial-and-error” method, to explore the latest thinking on gin shelf stability, botanical profiling, and formulation dynamics.
Attendees will gain insights into how scientific principles intersect with practical distillery challenges, and what the future holds for gin innovation.
Featuring Gin Guild members Gary Spedding and Jamie Baxter along with Tony Aiken from BDAS
Gary Spedding – Brewing & Distilling Analytical Services LLC
Gary Spedding is Senior Technical Consultant at Brewing & Distilling Analytical Services LLC, bringing decades of hands‑on experience in laboratory analysis and fermented beverage science. Gary specialises in sensory‑linked analytical work, translating complex chemical data into practical insights that distillers can apply on the still, in the lab or at blending. His expertise encompasses advanced methods for profiling botanicals, monitoring fermentation performance and comparing batch‑to‑batch variation — all of which are critical for high‑quality gin production. At Ginposium, Gary will complement the broader panel by emphasising how rigorous analytical frameworks can elevate both quality assurance and creative development within the contemporary gin sector.
Jamie Baxter – Craft Distilling Services
Jamie Baxter is a highly regarded consultant and specialist in distillery operations, formulation and quality assurance through his work with Craft Distilling Services. With a background rooted in practical distilling and a keen eye for production excellence, Jamie supports craft producers by helping optimise their processes, refine recipes and ensure consistent product quality as brands scale. His expertise spans everything from botanical selection and maceration techniques to the implementation of robust quality management systems. His contribution to Ginposium brings a practitioner’s insight into the challenges and opportunities facing distillers of all sizes as they strive for both creativity and technical rigour in an increasingly competitive market.
Tony Aiken – Brewing & Distilling Analytical Services LLC
Tony Aiken is Director at Brewing & Distilling Analytical Services LLC, where he provides independent laboratory support and analytical expertise to spirit producers worldwide. With extensive experience in fermentation science, distillation analytics and product evaluation, Tony enables distillers to better understand the chemistry behind their spirits — from volatile congeners and botanical markers to quality control indicators. His work helps producers ensure product consistency, troubleshoot production issues and meet regulatory standards. At Ginposium, Tony will offer a science‑based viewpoint on how analytical data can inform better production decisions, enhance flavour profiles and underpin consumer confidence in premium gin expressions.
Buy tickets to Ginposium online now:
Ginposium 2026
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- 12th June 2026
- RSA House, London
The views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views or position of The Gin Guild.
Presentations are provided for general information and were accurate to the best of the speakers’ knowledge at the time of recording. The Gin Guild does not accept responsibility for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies, nor for any actions taken in reliance on the information provided.