Quatre Épice? It's just the #1 Spice blend added to French Cuisine! Sausage, Paté, soups, stews, braises, savory dishes of all kinds will, frequently, have a bit of Quatre Épice added. Just like Garam Masala screams Indian, Quatre Épice is then flavor of France. It's use goes back hundreds of years.
The smell? Think about a well aged hunk of Parm Reggiano. The smell is like Stinky Feet. But, Grate some on your food and the depth of flavor and Umami, the cheese adds, goes thru the roof.
Same here. If you eat some French Sausages, the flavor should Enhance the pork. If any of the 4 Spice are forward and dominant, you used too much.
Since it new to you, try adding HALF the amount called for and Taste. It really good stuff used judiciously...JJ