Smoking compositions containing a flavorant-release additive

This invention provides smoking compositions which contain a tetracarbonate ester compound as a flavorant additive. In one of its embodiments, this invention provides tobacco compositions which contain a tetracarbonate ester flavorant additive such as 2,5-bis(menthoxycarbonyloxymethylene)-3,6-bis(menthoxycarbonyloxy)-1,4 -dioxane: Under cigarette smoking conditions the above illustrated tetracarbonate ester pyrolyzes into menthol and other products which enhance the flavor of the mainstream smoke and the aroma of sidestream smoke.