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

Barolo
Serralunga d’Alba
Monforte d’Alba

Or on the other side of Alba

Neive
Barbaresco

Make sure you plan on a lunch at Cascina Schiavenza in Serralunga d’Alba – 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