Condensation between N-Boc-nipecotic acid (I) and 2,3-di-O-benzyl ascorbic acid (II) using DCC in the presence of DMAP leads to ester (III). Subsequent removal of the N-Boc group of (III) with trifluoroacetic acid gives the N-deprotected nipecotate (IV). This is finally debenzylated by catalytic hydrogenolysis over Pd/C to furnish the title compound.