Gold(I)-Catalyzed Enantioselective Synthesis of Benzopyrans <i>via</i> Rearrangement of Allylic Oxonium Intermediates

The first transition metal catalyzed asymmetric carboalkoxylation reaction of propargyl esters is described. The (R)-MeO-DTBM-BIPHEP(AuCl)(2)-catalyzed reactions allow for the construction of benzopyrans containing quaternary stereocenters with excellent enantioselectivity. Experimental evidence supports a mechanism proceeding via the generation of a stabilized carbocation from an allylic oxonium intermediate and subsequent trapping by a chiral allylgold(I) spieces.