Montmorency is a named variety of sour cherry, and products say so because the variety is what has been studied rather than cherries in general. It is genuinely tart – nothing like a bag of sweet cherries.
Biona's pure juice is the unadulterated version. Active Edge's concentrate is the concentrated form, so a 946ml bottle goes considerably further than it looks.
Concentrate is the best value by a distance and is diluted before drinking – usually around 30ml in water, though follow the bottle. Pure juice is ready to drink and easier but works out dearer per serving.
Capsules and powders such as Viridian's are the option if you would rather not drink anything, or if the tartness is the obstacle. They are also easier to take away from home.
Montmorency cherry has no permitted health claim, so we are describing what it is and leaving it there. It is popular with people who train, and it has been for years, and that is a fact about who buys it rather than a claim about what it does.
It is a fruit product and contains fruit sugars. If you are managing your sugar intake, factor the concentrate in accordingly, and if you take prescribed medication ask a pharmacist before adding a concentrated fruit product daily.
FAQ
What is Montmorency cherry?
A named variety of sour cherry. It is genuinely tart, quite unlike sweet eating cherries.
How do I take the concentrate?
Diluted in water, following the amount on the bottle – typically around 30ml. It is not meant to be drunk neat.
Juice or capsules?
Concentrate is much the best value. Capsules suit anyone who would rather not drink it or finds the tartness off-putting.
Does it contain a lot of sugar?
It is a fruit product, so it contains fruit sugars. Worth factoring in if you are watching your intake.