I have a 2009 Dolce Elite and went with a compact double instead of a triple. My other two bikes are triples, and it's sometimes hard for me to get into the 'compact double' mindset when riding the Dolce...I catch myself looking for more gears at times. If I had it to do over I'd get the triple, but I don't feel strongly enough about it to make the switch. It's a matter of personal preference.
I tried a number of road bikes but the Dolce kept putting a smile on my face when compared with the others. Ride as many bikes as you can until one sings to you. If your budget is limited, you also could consider a gently-used road bike in good condition. (Many high cycling aspirations can be found hanging in garages and hiding in basements.)
1990 Univega Alpina/(stock) gel saddle
2009 Specialized Dolce Elite/BG Lithia saddle
2009 Jamis Coda Sport/Selle Royale Respiro saddle
2010 Jamis Aurora/Jamis Touring Sport saddle