2 large sweet yellow onions, sliced
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
¼ cup white wine
1 tbsp tomato paste
5 cups beef stock
1 bay leaf
bouquet garni (dried or fresh) *see notes*
2oz brandy
french bread, lightly toasted
8oz gruyere cheese