I am a few years older than you and just got into this as well. After putting some time in on a fixed gear, it was time for a real road bike. I went to my LBS and told them what I needed and how much I could spend, and I got hooked up beyond my wildest imaginations. Also worth noting is that I tried this at another LBS before and the owner told me what I wanted was "impossible." Under $1000 many of the bikes are very similar, and the brand is far less important than the component group and (especially this one) fit. Instead of setting your sights on a Trek or Bianchi or Giant or any other brand, I would define a component group minimum (Sora, Tiagra, Tiagra 105 mix are all possible under $1000) and look for something that fits you right regardless of brand or model. This will yield the best results.

I walked into my LBS and told the salesman (turned out to be the owner as well) that I wanted to keep it to $600 but needed a Tiagra double and would spend more if a really great bike came along. He found me a 2007 Scott S50 on clearance for $550 and for $50 more replaced the Sora drivetrain with Tiagra levers, derailer, 9sp rear cassette, Sugino double cranks (upgrade from nasty triple), and a SRAM Rival front derailer. I wouldn't say this is normal, but it's a good example of what can happen if you clearly define what you need and what you can spend and are willing to go to the brand and bike that fits your body and budget best instead of what people on an internet forum tell you is best for you.

That being said, I really like the Allez. Just watch out for that Sora group- for what you're spending I'd get Tiagra or higher.