Samuel Adams Launches 9% Cherry Bomb Ale Year-Round

Bold Imperial Wheat Ale with Explosive Black Cherry Flavor

Jan. 28, 2026 at 8:31am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Samuel Adams, one of the pioneers of craft beer and the #1 leader in fruited beer, is launching its latest craft brew, Cherry Bomb, a distinctly crafted Imperial Wheat Ale that bursts with bold, juicy, black cherry flavor and candied sweetness at 9% ABV, yet delivering a surprisingly clean, crisp finish. The brew is now available year-round at select convenience, liquor, and grocery stores nationwide in 19.2oz single-serve cans.

Why it matters

Samuel Adams is continuing to pioneer craft beer by tapping into the cherry territory with the first major high-ABV cherry beer from a national craft leader. Cherry Bomb represents a strategic expansion for Samuel Adams into the rapidly growing high-ABV beer category, which is expanding three times faster than traditional craft beer.

The details

Cherry Bomb delivers bold, juicy black cherry flavor with just a touch of candied sweetness. At 9% ABV, drinkers would never know it from the clean, crisp finish. This brew is a distinct Samuel Adams Imperial Wheat Ale featuring the brewery's signature two-row pale malt blend, malted wheat, Simcoe hops, honey, and real cherry juice, crafted with the brand's legendary ale yeast.

  • Cherry Bomb is now available year-round beginning January 2026.

The players

Samuel Adams

One of the pioneers of craft beer and the #1 leader in fruited beer.

John McElhenny

Senior brand manager of Samuel Adams.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We saw a massive opportunity to bring our signature craftsmanship to the high-ABV category with a flavor that consumers love but isn't currently in the marketplace. Cherry Bomb is perfect for beer lovers who want bold, juicy cherry flavor and higher ABV without sacrificing a crisp finish – perfect for savoring it solo or sharing it with friends.”

— John McElhenny, Senior brand manager of Samuel Adams (stocktitan.net)

The takeaway

Samuel Adams continues to innovate in the craft beer space by launching Cherry Bomb, a high-ABV imperial wheat ale with bold black cherry flavor, tapping into the growing demand for flavorful and potent beers.