Formulation

Formulating THC beverages requires precision, consistency, and a strong understanding of emulsion science. In this session, we’ll explore how producers build stable, great-tasting products—from dosing and bioavailability to flavor development and ingredient selection.

Panelists Include:

Gordon Whelpley, Cofounder, Float House Gordon Whelpley is the Founder of Float House, the Float-infused NA Craft Brewery in Windsor, CT. He's spent his professional career in production at Magic Hat, El Segundo, Stony Creek, and the 12% Beer Project prior to diving into the wild world of infused beverages and launching Float House in 2025. He's a Certified Cicerone, a graduate of UCSD's Brewing Science Program, and a former Professor of Brewing Science at Sacred Heart University.

Tim Gormley, Cofounder + Brewer, Burial Beer Tim Gormley is co-founder/co-owner of Burial Beer Co in Asheville, NC (founded 2013). After serving as head brewer for the first 5 years, he shifted to project manager (and later interim general manager) of Forestry Camp, Burial’s second Asheville taproom located in a historic Civilian Conservation Corp camp. In late 2020 he took on the role of Director of Research & Development where he focuses on the expansion of Burial’s product and experience offerings outside of craft beer. To date, that includes projects such as VISUALS Wine & Aperitif (and rooftop bar), Eulogy (live music venue), Séance (cannabis sparkling waters and coffee) and various un-fermented, non-alcoholic offerings.

Michael Schubert, Business Development Manager, Beck Flavors Michael Schubert has been with Beck Flavors for four years, beginning his career on the production side as an Operations Administrator. This hands-on experience provided him with a deep understanding of the complexities of flavor creation, including challenges related to solubility, emulsions, and viscosity. He transitioned into a sales role in 2023, where his technical foundation allows him to proactively guide customers, identifying potential formulation challenges early in the development process. This unique perspective has contributed to his rapid growth as one of the top emerging sales professionals on the team. While Michael supports a wide range of product categories, he has developed a strong specialization in the rapidly evolving THC/CBD beverage space. He brings extensive knowledge of both regulatory considerations and formulation challenges, helping customers navigate everything from cannabinoid delivery systems to advanced sweetness modulation and bitterness masking strategies. Outside of work, Michael is actively involved in coaching youth basketball and plays in a competitive roller hockey league. He also collaborates closely with his brother, Doug Schubert, Beck’s Director of Operations and Procurement. In addition, Michael is the lively host of Beck Flavors’ podcast, Behind the Flavor, which launched in June 2025 and continues to grow in reach and industry engagement.

Jamie Bogner, Cofounder + Editorial Director, Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine®