Balvenie was originally called Mortlach and goes back to the 13th century, when it belonged to the powerful Comyn Earls of Buchan. Robert the Bruce's attack in 1308 left it uninhabitable. It later passed to the Black Douglases and was extended in the 15th and 16th centuries. It was abandoned in the early 18th century for a new house nearby, which later became part of the Balvenie distillery.
It's a substantial ruin and a good one to wander. Historic Environment Scotland opens it from April to September, Wednesday to Sunday, for a small charge. There's usually a herd of shaggy Highland cattle in the field next door.