If you can/want to build it up yourself from the frame you can go with STI. Likewise, your LBS can order a special build. What I found with mine was that going with a special build is pretty hard to come in at the same price as buying the complete bike. Has to do with volume purchase of components versus what you can get them for individually unless you've got a lot of time to search or are willing to go with used stuff.

On the other hand, going with a special build let me build up the exact Cross-Check that I envisioned as the perfect commuting bike.

Oh...and it's quite a bit heavier than my carbon fiber road bike, but it will take a beating like I need my commuter to do.