Caro-Kann Defense: Classical Variation

1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.Nd2 dxe4 4.Nxe4 Bf5

ECO B18

The Caro-Kann Defense: Classical Variation is a chess opening line in the Caro-Kann Defense complex, reached after 1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.Nd2 dxe4 4.Nxe4 Bf5.

It is catalogued under code B18 in the Encyclopaedia of Chess Openings (ECO).

The defining move Bf5 is chosen by Black on move 4.

6 named continuations branch from this position, including the Flohr Variation and the Main Line.

Named variations

• Caro-Kann Defense: Classical Variation, Flohr Variation — ECO B18
• Caro-Kann Defense: Classical Variation, Main Line — ECO B18
• Caro-Kann Defense: Classical Variation, Maróczy Attack — ECO B18
• Caro-Kann Defense: Classical Variation, Lobron System — ECO B19
• Caro-Kann Defense: Classical Variation, Seirawan Variation — ECO B19
• Caro-Kann Defense: Classical Variation, Spassky Variation — ECO B19

Study this line with a grandmaster

This position is covered in the Caro-Kann Defense course: a GM-authored repertoire you study move by move, then practice against a human-like AI opponent.

Every chess term used here is defined in the chess terms glossary. Browse all opening courses or the full ECO code index.