A practical formal synthesis of lespedezol A 1 ( 1) was accomplished in 33% yield for four steps starting from formation of the substituted chalcone. Of particular note is a useful protocol for reduction of the 2-ene bond in the isoflavone intermediate. A significant improvement in the final ring closure when water was scavenged from the reaction is also noteworthy. The ready availability of lespedezol A 1 will provide material for further pharmacological evaluation and for exploration of the pterocarpene nucleus as a potential entry into various 6a-hydroxypterocarpans.