From a study of the 13C-shift values of the MTPA esters of 3-substituted cyclohexanols of known absolute configuration an empirical rule has been developed to determine the absolute configuration of chiral cyclohexanols. The method is based on the Dale-Mosher model, which was originally developed for 'H-NMR spectra. The scope and limitations of this method are discussed. The enantiomeric purity of the alcohols can be determined simultaneously by integration of the signals in well-resolved diastereotopic carbon pairs.