If you are looking for small towns check out (in no particular order):

Barolo
Serralunga dAlba
Monforte dAlba

Or on the other side of Alba

Neive
Barbaresco

Make sure you plan on a lunch at Cascina Schiavenza in Serralunga dAlba Amazing very slow lunch (remember Bra in Piemonte is the home of Slow food) great views unbelievable meals.

Bottom line you will not go wrong wherever you guys decide.

“Every time I open a bottle of wine, it is an amazing trip somewhere!” José Andrés