There is no one pattern for a winter bike but generally they gain from simplicity. You could use a single chainring setup with 9 gears. Singlespeed bikes are popular and good in flatter terrain. I use an 8 speed internal hub gear.
You need tyre clearance, fender eyelets, possibly rear rack for the extra luggage of a winter ride.
I suggest you pick up a cheap-but-good used MTB and see how well it suits your riding. MTBs are easier to find that cyclo-cross bikes and make good winter trail machines. You can always sell it on and buy a more suitable style later.