Used in the synthesis of chiral pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals due to its enantiomerically pure hydroxy ester functionality. Serves as a chiral building block in asymmetric synthesis, particularly in the preparation of bioactive molecules such as antibiotics, antifungal agents, and cardiovascular drugs. Its hydroxyl and ester groups allow for further chemical modifications, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry and process development. Also employed in the fragrance industry for the production of ester-based aroma compounds with fruity or creamy notes.