Redhook Brewery was a pioneer from the very start. When it launched as Independent Brewing Company in the early 1980s, its Redhook Ale was one of the first U.S. craft brews to use Belgian yeast, and introduced American beer drinkers to Belgian beer’s trademark “banana” scent. Now the Washington State brewery is getting attention with another unique brew.

Joint Effort is hemp ale, brewed with hemp seeds. The collaboration between Redhook and Seattle newcomer Hilliard Beer was brewed to celebrate the recent legalization of marijuana use in the breweries’ home state (an initiative allowing possession for personal use was approved by voters in November 2012).

Ringing in at 5.6% ABV and 25 IBUs, the beer is billed as a session ale. It’s dry-hopped with three kinds of hops — Zeus, Cascade and Summit — and the aroma is appropriately described as “dank and resinous,” balanced by the earthiness of the hemp seeds.

Available on draft as of July 15 in Washington State only, the beer is being released with a notable tap handle: it is shaped like a bright yellow bong, complete with column art, bowl and slide. Joint Effort is also scheduled for release in 22-oz. bottles this October, also only throughout Washington. Hemp-hopheads, time to schedule a trip to the Pacific Northwest.