1. Melt butter in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, halved lengthwise and cut into 1/4-inch slices. Cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and very soft, about 45 minutes.

2. Deglaze pan with Cognac and wine, scraping up bits from bottom of pan with a wooden spoon.

3. Sprinkle flour over onions; stir. Add beef stock and thyme leaves and bring to a simmer. Cook, partially covered, until heated through, about 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Preheat broiler. Arrange Gruyere on bread and broil until cheese is melted, about 1 to 2 minutes. Serve with soup.