A rando bike is a good all-rounder option, over that of a townie if you want a bit more distance and utility built in. Some other options I would check into:

http://shop.boxdogbikes.com/collecti...pelican-winter
They seem to be a bit limited on sizes right now, but I would guess that could change in the future. They seem to order in batches with these

http://www.renehersebicycles.com/Randonneur%20bikes.htm

http://www.rawlandcycles.com/store/i...intItemID=3960
The larger frames are 700c, but a great value from what I hear.

http://oceanaircycles.com/bicycles/rambler/
It comes with Paul racer brakes.