An easily assembled catalyst from (+/-)-BINOL (1,1 ' -bi-naphthol) and Zr(O
' Pr)(4). ' PrOH selectively reduces aldehydes at room temperature. Ketone
s remain intact under these conditions. A catalytic amount of BINOL-Zr comp
lex in the presence of 2-propanol also effectively reduces a variety of chi
ral and achiral aldehydes. (C) 2001 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.