Java Monster

Big Black Big Black is the straight-up coffee flavored variety of the Java Monster line. There”s a noticeably stronger coffee flavor to this variety than the others, but otherwise the flavor drinks the same. On the other hand, there”s something about the name “Big Black” that we don”t find terribly appetizing. Still, we think that Hansen has done a nice job on this product in terms of flavor, functionality and branding. Perhaps they will finally be the company that cracks the stranglehold that is Starbuck”s Frappuccino. Loca Moca Coffee and energy, isn”t that a bit redundant? After all, Coffee is really the original energy drink. Either way, Java Monster is probably the most meaningful RTD coffee introduction since Starbucks came out with Doubleshot. Loca Moca is a meaningful evolution forward, blending ingredients typically seen in an energy drink with the taste of an RTD iced coffee. The coffee flavor is at least as good as a Starbuck”s Frappuccino bottled product, plus it has a mild chocolate note to the finish

. Overall, it”s pleasing and, when you factor in the Monster brand, credible. The packaging, which uses the beige tones that are standard for the category, certainly looks like something we”d expect to have coffee inside. It”s not necessarily the most attractive can we”ve ever seen for an iced coffee, but it is a good translation of the Monster brand. Overall, Loca Moca has great taste, a decent package, and packs a nice punch. Mean Bean Java Monster”s Mean Bean variety is what you”d typically call a “French vanilla” flavored coffee drink. The added splash of vanilla does a great job of hiding any energy flavor that might otherwise be present. Plus, it adds to the creaminess of the product, making this the richest tasting flavor of the line. It would probably be nice if the can had the word “vanilla” on it, but it”s not a huge deal. Otherwise, this is a well executed coffee and energy hybrid that will definitely give you a boost.