Abstract Highly enantioselective reduction of β-keto esters with BINAP-Ru catalyst can be effected at 50 psig H2 and 80°, using a Parr shaker. A simplified preparation of the BINAP-Ru catalyst is reported. Highly enantioselective reduction of β-keto esters with BINAP-Ru catalyst can be effected at 50 psig H2 and 80°, using a Parr shaker. A simplified preparation of the BINAP·Ru catalyst is reported.