Optimization of reaction conditions^a.

Entry	Base	Solvent	DCID 2 (eq.)	Yield (%)
1	Et3N	CH2Cl2	1	75
2	Et3N	CH2Cl2	1.20	86
3	Pyridine	CH2Cl2	1.20	70
4	DIEA	CH2Cl2	1.20	82
5	Et3N	DMF	1.20	45
6	Et3N	THF	1.20	52
7	Et3N	CH3CN	1.20	60
8	Et3N	CH2Cl2	—	—

^aReaction condition: benzoic acid (1 mmol), base (1 mmol), benzyl alcohol (1.0 mmol), solvent (5 mL), time: 24 h at room temperature.