In Edgar Allan Poe’s short story “The Cask of Amontillado,” the term “draught” refers specifically to a drink or a drinkable quantity, particularly in the context of wine. In the story, Montresor lures Fortunato into the catacombs under the guise of testing a rare sherry he has acquired called Amontillado, which is a type of fortified wine. The term is significant because it underscores the idea of indulgence and the celebratory nature of wine that ultimately leads to Fortunato’s downfall.
The word “draught” also carries connotations of something being consumed in a single gulp, suggesting a sense of urgency and carelessness in Fortunato’s character. His eagerness to taste the Amontillado without further questioning Montresor’s motives ultimately contributes to his tragic fate. Thus, the use of “draught” encapsulates both the allure of fine wine and the fatal consequences of blind trust and arrogance in the narrative.