re: Wipe on poly

As a general rule I don’t use penetrating stains on cherry, it will often splotch. If a penetrating stain is needed, I don’t sand past 150 grit. Sanding to a finer grit will also contribute to splotching.

I agree with Brian, at this point I’d leave it alone. Sanding it down and refinishing it probably won’t be worth the effort. The good news is cherry darkens with age and will probably even itself out, which is another reason I tend to not use stains on cherry especially dark stains.

If you choose to darken cherry, use a dye such as transtint. Dyes color the wood much more evenly and don’t muddy up the appearance.