Kansas State University Athletics
K-State Launches Vodka Partnership with Boot Hill Distillery
Jun 27, 2022 | Athletics
MANHATTAN, Kansas – K-State Athletics and Boot Hill Distillery have partnered to launch EMAW Vodka, the Wildcats' officially licensed vodka, which is available now for purchase at liquor stores across the state of Kansas.
Distilled by K-State alumni at Boot Hill Distillery in Dodge City, Kansas, EMAW Vodka is gluten-free and is 80-proof with an alcohol by volume of 40 percent. On the palate, EMAW Vodka has tastes of roasted sweet corn, black pepper with a creamy mouth-feel and hints of blood orange and vanilla.
"Following a successful launch of the Wabash Reserve whiskey, we are thrilled to once again work with fellow K-Stater Hayes Kelman (Owner/CEO) and his entire Boot Hill Distillery staff on this next exciting project," Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. "This partnership has proven to be a good one, and we are appreciative of everyone who makes up this team, including our staff, our partners at Learfield, Affinity licensing, the great people at Boot Hill and all of the statewide businesses who will carry this premium beverage."
Served neat, on the rocks or in your favorite cocktail, EMAW Vodka is the perfect way to celebrate the Wildcats and the legacy of Kansas State University. Each bottle purchased helps support K-State and an alumni-owned Kansas company.
"We are excited to continue our partnership with Kansas State University," stated Boot Hill Distillery CEO and 2015 K-State graduate Kelman. "This collaborative project of EMAW Vodka is a significant next step in the ever growing relationship between an alumni owned business and its alma mater. Together we created a uniquely state of Kansas spirit for fans to continue their support of Kansas State University."
Fans are encouraged to visit their local liquor stores throughout the state of Kansas next week to purchase EMAW Vodka. The product, distributed by Standard Beverage, will also be available in restaurants and bars across the state.
For more information on this special release and to see a continually updated list of carriers, visit Boot Hill Distillery.
Distilled by K-State alumni at Boot Hill Distillery in Dodge City, Kansas, EMAW Vodka is gluten-free and is 80-proof with an alcohol by volume of 40 percent. On the palate, EMAW Vodka has tastes of roasted sweet corn, black pepper with a creamy mouth-feel and hints of blood orange and vanilla.
"Following a successful launch of the Wabash Reserve whiskey, we are thrilled to once again work with fellow K-Stater Hayes Kelman (Owner/CEO) and his entire Boot Hill Distillery staff on this next exciting project," Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. "This partnership has proven to be a good one, and we are appreciative of everyone who makes up this team, including our staff, our partners at Learfield, Affinity licensing, the great people at Boot Hill and all of the statewide businesses who will carry this premium beverage."
Served neat, on the rocks or in your favorite cocktail, EMAW Vodka is the perfect way to celebrate the Wildcats and the legacy of Kansas State University. Each bottle purchased helps support K-State and an alumni-owned Kansas company.
"We are excited to continue our partnership with Kansas State University," stated Boot Hill Distillery CEO and 2015 K-State graduate Kelman. "This collaborative project of EMAW Vodka is a significant next step in the ever growing relationship between an alumni owned business and its alma mater. Together we created a uniquely state of Kansas spirit for fans to continue their support of Kansas State University."
Fans are encouraged to visit their local liquor stores throughout the state of Kansas next week to purchase EMAW Vodka. The product, distributed by Standard Beverage, will also be available in restaurants and bars across the state.
For more information on this special release and to see a continually updated list of carriers, visit Boot Hill Distillery.
K-State Athletics | Ask the A.D. with Gene Taylor - Dec. 12, 2025
Friday, December 12
K-State Men's Basketball | Creative Highlights vs Mississippi Valley State
Thursday, December 11
K-State Women's Basketball | Head Coach Jeff Mittie Press Conference - December 10, 2025
Wednesday, December 10
K-State Women's Basketball | Players Press Conference - December 10, 2025
Wednesday, December 10