Amontillado is one of the most complex and fascinating sherry styles, produced in Jerez, Spain through a unique dual ageing process. It begins as a fino, aged under a protective layer of flor yeast that gives it its initial delicate, almond character. After several years the flor dies off naturally and the wine is exposed to oxygen, developing the deeper, richer flavours of dried fruit, hazelnuts, tobacco and caramel that define the mature amontillado style.
Made from palomino grapes, amontillado is naturally dry, though some producers sell lightly sweetened versions. True dry amontillado is a wine of extraordinary complexity, sitting between the delicate freshness of fino and the full richness of oloroso. It pairs beautifully with charcuterie, hard cheese, chicken, mushroom dishes and rich soups, and works equally well as a sophisticated alternative to white wine at the dinner table. For more on how amontillado fits into the wider sherry category see our guide to the styles of sherry wine and our complete guide to sherry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Amontillado Sherry
What is amontillado sherry?
Amontillado is a dry sherry style produced in Jerez, Spain, aged through two distinct processes. It begins as a fino under a protective layer of flor yeast, then develops further through oxidative ageing once the flor disappears. The result is a wine of exceptional complexity, combining the delicate nutty freshness of fino with the deeper dried fruit and caramel richness of oloroso.
How does amontillado differ from fino sherry?
Fino is aged entirely under flor yeast and retains a pale, delicate character throughout. Amontillado begins as a fino but continues ageing after the flor dies off, exposing the wine to oxygen and developing a darker colour, greater complexity and richer flavour. See our styles of sherry guide for a full comparison of every style.
How should amontillado sherry be served?
Amontillado is best served slightly chilled at 12 to 14 degrees Celsius, cooler than room temperature but not as cold as fino or manzanilla. A standard white wine glass or copita works well. Once opened, it keeps for two to three weeks in the fridge with a good stopper. For a full serving guide see our sherry serving and storage guide.
What food pairs well with amontillado sherry?
Amontillado pairs beautifully with charcuterie, jamon, roasted chicken, mushroom dishes, aged hard cheese such as manchego and parmesan, and rich chicken or mushroom soups. Its nutty complexity also makes it an excellent cooking wine, add a splash to a mushroom sauce or chicken braise for immediate depth. For more ideas see our guide to cooking with sherry.
What is VORS amontillado?
VORS stands for Very Old Rare Sherry, a designation requiring an average age of 30 years or more verified by the Consejo Regulador. The Gonzalez Byass Del Duque VORS 30 Year Old Amontillado in our range is one of the finest examples of aged amontillado available, with extraordinary depth and complexity developed over three decades in barrel. These expressions represent some of the most undervalued fine wines in the world.
Is amontillado sherry sweet or dry?
True amontillado is naturally dry, with no added sweetness. Some producers sell medium or sweetened versions but these cannot legally be labelled as amontillado under Jerez appellation rules. When buying amontillado, look for "seco" on the label to confirm the dry style, or check the tasting notes for any mention of added sweetness.
Spain
Diatomists Amontillado Sherry 37.5cl
