In your crockpot set on high, combine butter, oil, onions, sugar, salt, pepper, and thyme.
In a small cup, whisk together the flour and water until smooth, and pour into the slow cooker.
Finally, add in the wine, cover, and let the onions cook for about 3-4 hrs on high (8-10 hrs on low), until onions are very soft and golden brown.
When almost ready to serve, add in the beef or veggie broth, and allow soup to cook for at least 1 more hour.
When ready to serve, pour the soup into 5 oven-safe bowls or ramekins. Top each bowl with a slice of bread, and put one slice of provolone on top of each. Sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan on top.
Place bowls under the broiler (around 450-500F) for 2-3 minutes, watching VERY carefully, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately!