The present invention relates to technology for preparing derivatives of unsaturated, cyclic, organic acids and salts, thereof. Shikimic acid is an example of such an acid. More particularly, the present invention relates to preparing derivatives of these acids or salts thereof that are esterified, ketalized, functionalized with a leaving group, and/or provided with epoxide functionality. Preferred aspects may be used in the synthesis of Oseltamivir Phosphate starting from shikimic acid.