Choosing a varnish, laquer or polyurethane for kitchen cabinet carcasses

Hello all, Here is a multiple questions concerning the same project:
I want to finish my unassembled kitchen cabinet carcasses, but first must choose which one is best. I’m sure many of you have gone through this dilemna, and have worked out the details. So, what whould you recommend? Drying time for me is not an issue, so if poly takes a few days, that’s fine.
Also, I’ve read that I should tape off any gluing areas (dadoes & mated surfaces) to keep the poly from that area.Correct?
One final issue; can I polyurethane on a rainy day? or a damp day? I purchased a gallon of Minwax std. satin poly for the carcasses. I am planning on brushing on the finish, lightly sand each coat, 3 coats total. The exposed end of any cabinet will be stained with cherry, then polyurethaned.
All suggestions are greatly appreciated!
Oh, my face frames are cherry, as the doors (yet to be built)

-- Paul, Bristol,Rhode Island