Balvenie Castle is a ruined castle near Dufftown in the Grampian region of Scotland.
Originally known as Mortlach, it was built in the 12th century by the Comyn Clan (the Black Comyns) and extended in the 15th and 16th centuries.
The castle fell into the ownership of the Clan Douglass (the Black Douglasses) in the early 15th century when the Comyns were wiped out by Robert the Bruce. In turn King James II wiped out the Douglasses and it was granted to John Stewart, the first Earl of Atholl.
Balvenie Castle served as a garrison during the Jacobite rebellion. It was abandoned in 1720 following the Battle of Culloden.
Today, the remains of the castle are owned by Historic Scotland. They are open to the public during the summer months.
Balvenie whisky is produced by William Grant & Sons at the Balvenie distillery next to the castle.
Last updated: 10-14-2005 07:07:40
