Julian Cherry Bomb Hard Cider Review — Why I Want More

During a recent visit to Julian, CA, I picked up a few bottles of the local hard ciders, including three of the Julian Cherry Bomb. I didn’t know exactly what to expect the first time I opened a bottle, but given how much I enjoyed the Julian Hard Apple Cider, I was optimistic about this cherry variation.

The first sip revealed a well-crafted balance of sweet and dry. The Cherry Bomb begins with a pleasant sweetness, dries out toward the finish, and leaves a pronounced cherry note on the palate. That cherry taste felt familiar; after a moment I realized it wasn’t the flavor of fresh Bing cherries but a brighter, tart profile. The bottle explains why: the cider is handcrafted with juice from the Montmorency cherry. Montmorency is the classic sour cherry used widely in American baking for pies, preserves, and jams, and its tartness is clearly present here.

Compared with Julian’s straight Hard Apple Cider, the Cherry Bomb is noticeably sweeter, but it never becomes cloying. It’s a pleasing alternative for anyone who prefers a fruitier, softer cider rather than a very dry style. The carbonation is well judged—lively but not aggressive—and the 22 fluid ounce (650 ml) bottle was easy to finish. At 6.99% ABV, it offers a satisfying sip without overwhelming the fruit character.

I was able to find the regular Julian Hard Apple Cider at several Houston retailers, but the Cherry Bomb proved harder to locate outside of Julian. If you come across a bottle, I recommend picking it up. Serve it well chilled or over crushed ice—either way, it’s a refreshing choice after a long day in the yard or an office shift.

If you enjoy fruit-forward, slightly tart ciders with good carbonation and moderate strength, the Julian Cherry Bomb is worth trying. It delivers a crisp apple base brightened by Montmorency cherry juice, creating a flavorful balance that’s both approachable and distinct.