he Montuni variety, which is also known as "Montù", is widely diffused in the province of Bologna and in a neighboring district of the province of Modena. The variety reached its peak in terms of diffusion toward the end of the last century. It is also well distributed in the Romagna where it is known under the name Bianchina or Bianchetto.Its origins are uncertain. The most generally accepted hypothesis is that it is descended from a Spanish variety known as Mantù that was perhaps introduced at the same time that numerous vineyards in the region were being planted in Alicante vines. It would seem to be a clone that was isolated and propagated by the Bologna growers because of its vigor, productivity and resistance to parasites as well as for the excellent quality of the wine it produces.
Montuni currently ranks in third place among the most extensively cultivated varieties in the province of Bologna. And it is now grown on 2,000 hectares. In the part of Modena province where the variety is grown, Montuni ranks immediately behind the various Lambrusco subvarieties. Vineyards planted in the variety cover about 500 hectares.
In addition to Reno Montuni, there Reno DOC discipline allows the production of a Reno Bianco, which is made from a mixture of Albana and Trebbiano Romagnolo, and a Reno Pignoletto, which is made from at least 85 per cent of Pignoletto.
