Hello all -- newcomer here. I bought a couple of top round roasts because they were buy one get one free at my local grocery store. I've always enjoyed cooking but have rarely cooked beef. I know I want to either braise it on the stovetop or slow-cook it in the crockpot, and I'm hoping someone here has a favorite method for this roast. I like the nice crust you get with a pot-roast, but I want to be sure the roast is tender. Also, would a dry rub a few hours before roasting give better flavor than just including the spices in the braising liquid? I'll be using salt, pepper, allspice, rosemary, and mustard, and braising in red wine and water. Any suggestions for other seasonings or methods?