Nebbiolo d'Alba query

Recently, I've had some wonderful examples of Nebbiolo d'Alba when eating out (one I especially recall was produced by Franco Bruno). I have been unable to find them in DC, however, at least in the shops I can get to easily. If I buy some wines from the same area, (i.e.: Langhe) am I likely to get the same qualities that I'm looking for in a wine from Alba?

No.

More seriously, a lot depends on specific producers/cuvees/vintages, but in general the Langhe wines don't have as much power as the best ones from Alba. Could be easier to drink young. But much will depend on vintage.

A lot of course depends on what qualities you are looking for in a Nebbiolo d'Alba! Some might be terroir based, and some grape based. Personally, I'd rather have a top Langhe Nebbiolo than an average Nebbiolo d'Alba, but in general I agree with Rahsaan that on average the Alba will have more oomph and longevity than a Langhe. Gattinara and Ghemme could be other similarly priced wines to check out (or Spanna or Carema, but those tend to have a somewhat different style)

Dale and Rahsaan - thank you both for your insights. I will continue looking for the d'Alba and perhaps enjoy a few non-d'Albas along the way.

Dale and Rahsaan - thank you both for your insights. I will continue looking for the d'Alba and perhaps enjoy a few non-d'Albas along the way.

And, FWIW, there are some interesting nebbiolo wines coming our of Gattinara, Carema, Lessona, Ghemme, etc.
Worth exploring.
Best, Jim

I see the 2005 Luigi Ferrando Carema white label available for $37 at MacArthur. Truly excellent nebbiolo, drinking beautifully now, not to be missed IMO.