Several types of zinc modified Mg-Al layered double hydroxides were prepared. Zinc was incorporated into catalyst structure using different methods-coprecipitation, kneading or impregnation. Characterization of all solid catalysts was performed using different techniques. Acido-basic properties of prepared materials were investigated using ammonia (or carbon dioxide) temperature programmed desorption. The activity of the prepared samples was compared with pure Mg-Al oxide with Mg:Al ratio 3:1 in aldol condensation of benzaldehyde and heptanal. The influence of temperature (80-120 A degrees C) on the reaction course was monitored. Heptanal conversion and selectivity to two main products, i.e. 2-pentylcinnamylaldehyde (jasmine aldehyde) and 2 pentylnon-2-enal, were evaluated. Zinc modified catalysts exhibited under the same conditions 15-20% higher yields of the desired jasmine aldehyde. [GRAPHICS] .