With proof-of-principle for this strategy demonstrated, the scope and limitations of the developed process was investigated (Scheme 1). Variation of the steric and electronic properties of the C(3)-substituent within the phthalide scaffold was initially varied (Scheme 1A). With aliphatic C(3)-substituents reaction at 0˚C showed that progressive variation of the linear carbon chain from C(3)-methyl to C(3)-ethyl, C(3)-n-butyl and C(3)-n-decyl was tolerated, giving esters 7, 8, 10 and 11 in excellent product yield and enantioselectivity (74% to 96% yield, up to 94:6 er). The incorporation of C(3)-a-branched substitution within the substrate was developed, with both C(3)-i-Pr and C(3)-cyclopentyl substitution tolerated, giving 12 and 13 respectively in excellent yield (>90%) and 97:3 er. To further test the effect of steric hindrance the DKR of the corresponding C(3)-t-butyl variant was probed, giving ester 14 in 91% yield and >99:1 er. Intrigued by the effectiveness of this protocol, further extension to a C(3)-t-butyl-