If I recall correctly – this is the first project I made using lumber that was milled from our property.  The wood is Black Ash – or Swamp Ash.  I deliberately chose pieces that had a mixture of heart wood (dark) and sap wood (light).  I treated the cabinet with wipe on poly (50% polyurethane, 50% mineral spirits).  Over time the dual colour of the wood has melded together and the cabinet is more of a uniform golden colour.  I have to say that I really do like working with Ash and the grain pattern.  I find that the grain is similar looking to Oak, but not porous the way that oak is.