If you are planning on using this for loaded touring, I would seriously consider upgrading to STI. When you're carrying an extra load on the forks, it's really nice to have the shifting incorporated into the brake lever and not have to remove the hands form the bar. That said, I'd be looking at least 7 speed, and changing out the cassette and body to HyperGlide.

EjustE's suggestion of an ATB bar with extensions and ATB shifters is another option worth considering, and likely less expensive.