Synthetic methods of preparing perhydro-3,6-dimethyl-2-benzo[b]furanones, in particular dihydromintlactone, and analogs through reaction of dehydrogenation of menthanediols and analogs with a base in the presence of (carbonylchlorohydrido[bis-(2-diphenylphosphinoethyl)amine]ruthenium(II) as catalyst in good stereoselectivity and yields under stereochemistry controlled conditions are disclosed.