| Abstract: | The synthesis of a new, highly efficient cis‐ion‐tagged catalyst ( 8a ), possessing an amide linkage between the imidazolium tag and the proline ring, is described. This new bench‐stable catalyst has been tested in the classic asymmetric aldol condensation between ketones and aldehydes “in the presence” of water, and is proposed as a valuable alternative to the analogous but more sensitive ester cis‐ 2d . Catalyst 8a displayed an excellent efficiency in terms of catalyst loading and stereochemical control. |
