Auto Tandem Catalysis: Asymmetric Vinylogous Cycloaddition/Kinetic Resolution Sequence for the Enantioselective Synthesis of Spiro‐Dihydropyranone from Benzylidene Meldrum's Acid

A catalytic enantioselective vinylogous domino reaction has been achieved from ketone‐derived benzylidene Meldrum's acid and α‐ketolactones to provide spirolactone dihydropyranones with more than 99% ee. An Auto Tandem Catalysis (ATC) process resulting from dual and complementary role of (DHQ)2PHAL organocatalyst resulted in a sequence involving an asymmetric vinylogous formal (4+2) cycloaddition of benzylidene and the subsequent kinetic resolution operating through a 1,3‐prototropic shift leading to good yields (>50%) and the high selectivity.