Over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and oil. Add sliced onions Cover, cook and stir occasionally, until onions are soft and translucent Increase heat to high, remove lid, add sugar and salt. Saute stirring often until onions are very soft and DEEP brown. Reduce to medium heat and sprinkle flour in pan, STIR CONSTANTLY for 2-3 mintues. Add 2 cups of stock and stir, then add rest of stock and wine, season w/ salt and pepper, and simmer for 30 minutes uncovered. Preheat oven to 425, butter the slices of french bread (or I've even used hamburger buns) and let them brown. Add some soup to oven safe bowl, then place bread on top and add more soup. Cover with a couple of slices of provolone and place under broiler until cheese is metled and slightly browned on top. ENJOY