ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK

Posted on December 14, 2022 | Last updated February 1, 2025

ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK
Released on December 6, 2022, ZONe's "Killer Coffee" series presents the "Awakening Bitter BLACK." It is a sugar-free black coffee with a high caffeine content of 157mg in 245ml. One bottle of Awakening Bitter BLACK contains more caffeine than the original ZONe Original 3.0.0.

While it does not have the typical energy drink label and is considered a regular coffee, I decided to review it as part of the ZONe series, which has firmly established itself as an energy drink brand.

It is sold through Amazon, vending machines within service areas, and certain university co-ops. On Amazon, a special package is available, and it includes a coupon for up to 30% off on your next purchase, making it highly recommended.

ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK

Manufacturer	Suntory foods
Country of Origin	Japan
Price	144 JPY
Flavor	Coffee
Total rating	★★★☆☆

Features and recommendations for ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK

245mlにカフェイン157mg配合(ZONeシリーズ史上最高配合量)
無糖ブラックが好きなら万人受けするブラックコーヒー

Author information Author: Energy Drink-kun

In 2001, while living in the United States, I encountered energy drinks through the dance scene and was deeply impressed. After returning to Japan, I found that energy drinks were considered novelty beverages, so I established a comprehensive website in 2013 to share the true appeal of energy drinks. As an energy drink enthusiast, I began drinking them seriously again, collecting over 8,000 varieties of energy drinks from various countries. I am also active as a critic and expert, receiving media interviews.

Flavor of ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK

Upon opening, the aroma of roasted coffee with a hint of acidity fills the air. The coffee beans are carefully selected, mainly from Brazil and Ethiopia, creating a blend that enhances both bitterness and flavor.
Flavor of ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK
When I took a sip, I enjoyed a moderate bitterness and a roasted taste, making it a classic unsweetened black coffee.

The acidity is subtle, and the bitter flavor and roastiness are balanced without being overwhelming, resulting in a smooth, non-intrusive black coffee.

From the product name "Awakening Bitter BLACK," I imagined it would be more bitter, but it’s not excessively bitter. So, no need to worry—it’s not as intense as the "powerful taste" the packaging or the phrase "killing drowsiness" might suggest.

With 157mg of caffeine, it quickly helps shake off drowsiness. It seems perfect for driving, work, or studying as a regular unsweetened black coffee with no sweetness.

Energy Ingredients of ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK

Energy Ingredients of ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK
It contains 157mg of caffeine. There are no additional energy ingredients. As there is no energy drink label on the product, it seems best to enjoy it as a regular canned coffee with a higher caffeine content.

This unsweetened black coffee contains zero sugar and zero calories, allowing you to consume more caffeine than ZONe Original, all within 245ml.

Design of ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK

The design features a skull with horns and fangs on a black can, perfectly matching the intimidating image of "Killer Coffee."
Design of ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK
The contrast between black and gold, along with the glossy finish depending on the light, gives it a sense of luxury.

Design of ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK
The coffee cup held by the skull features the ZONe power logo.

Design of ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK
On the back, there is the phrase "Strong bitterness that kills drowsiness."

The ZONe Killer Coffee series, which was released simultaneously in two varieties, includes both the latte and black options.
Design of ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK
The "Awakening Sweet Latte" has a faded, distressed look, while the "Awakening Bitter Black" has a sleek and luxurious feel.

Design of ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK
Since it's only available in limited locations, I recommend purchasing it on Amazon. There’s also a cool Amazon-exclusive pack that includes drip coffee, with stylish exterior and interior designs.

This limited edition pack includes a 30% off coupon for your next purchase, so you can buy ZONe Killer Coffee in bulk at a discount.
Design of ZONe KILLER COFFEE Awakening Bitter BLACK
At 144 yen for a 245ml long can coffee, it’s a reasonably priced option compared to the high cost of energy drink brands, and with the discount coupon, it’s even more affordable for bulk purchases.