09/24/2026
The man behind the cocktail program
Local botanicals. Gila history. Handcrafted cocktails. 🌿🥃
Meet Charlie Kreizenbeck, General Manager of The Branding Iron and the creative force behind our cocktail program.
Charlie is building a cocktail menu inspired by the flora, fauna, and stories that make our corner of New Mexico one of a kind, a menu that invites you to taste the Gila in every glass. It's the kind of experience he's been working toward for 6.5 years, through fine dining, craft cocktail bars, and a few coastal Carolina dive bars.
Originally from Baltimore, Charlie found his way to Silver City and a community that took him in. Now he's leading the team at The Branding Iron with a focus on hospitality and consistency. He carries the lessons of his late friend and mentor, Maja Griffin, who inspired him to build a life and career around the things that bring him joy.
Off the clock, you'll find Charlie hiking the Gila or at practice with the local Judo club.
To Charlie, "Leave Your Mark" means leading a project people are proud to be part of. We can't wait for you to taste what he's creating.
Murray Hotel
