The Langhe DOC, established in 1994, covers wines made in the Langhe Hills, an area near the city of Alba. Most of the Langhe territory is located in the province of Alba, east of the Tanaro River; a small portion is in the province of Asti. The name comes from the Italian word for "tongue", as the district's shape slightly resembles a human tongue.

White and red wines can be labeled (Langhe Bianco, Langhe Rosso) and must contain 100% of the variety stated on the label. The most common of these is Langhe Nebbiolo, which originates form communes that produce Barolo and Barbaresco. Thus a Langhe Nebbiolo is a fine introduction to these two great wines, especially as the wine is more approachable as well as less expensive. Any white or red grape authorized for planting in the Langhe, be it a local variety such as Dolcetto or Arneis or even an international variety such as Chardonnay, can be labeled with the Langhe DOC designation. (Wine/Appellations)