I suspect you'd really like trying out some gravel bikes. You are experienced enough to be aware of gearing realities that will work for you, and to appreciate the differences in how different models ride.
I'd be inclined to look at double crank models, the 1x stuff is great for mountain biking etc but for a bike with potential for a lot of road use too, a smaller double send ideal to me (46\30 sorry of thing) but you'll have to see what's offered with this.
As you say, discs, tubeless, wide dropbars with flare out, you'll love it.
Test riding time I think it's in order, and a bunch of researching to get an idea of what's out there, and at what cost.
My now 11 year old cross bike was essentially this when I got it, pretty versatile bike for being able to take wide tires but competent and fastish with slicks. I'm sure there are lots of gravel bikes in the low to mid 20 lb range, and with modern brakes and shifters, will be a hoot to ride, whether with light nice feeling slicks or 45 gravel tires.