'amontillado' originates from Spanish, specifically the word 'amontillado,' where 'a-' meant 'to' and 'Montilla' referred to a region in Spain known for its wine production.

'amontillado' was borrowed directly from Spanish into English, retaining its original form and meaning.

Initially, it referred to a specific type of sherry from Montilla, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.