Cycles Gladiator Pinot Noir 2011, California (£8.99-£9.99 The Co-op, Wine Rack, The Vintner)
This is OK, but lacks freshness, and reminds me too much of Jammie Dodgers, both in the strange baked red jam flavours and the biscuity edge. C

Lay of the Land Ben Morven Farm Pinot Noir 2011, Marlborough, New Zealand (£15.99 Naked Wines)
I like the cool earthy character here and ripe cherry flavours, but the slightly stewed fruit note and touch of cola suggest overextraction. B

Seven Springs Pinot Noir Young Vines I 2011, Overberg, South Africa (£13.99 Loki Wine, Bijou Bottles, Proteas Wines, Underwood Wines, C. A. Rookes, S.H. Jones, Frasers Budgens (Yarnton & Marlborough), City Beverage Company)
This starts off seeming sweet and simple, then uncurls to show a more earthy, feral core, with plummy berry fruit and nicely balanced oak. Well made, if I have any complaint it’s that the fruit is just tending to the overripe. S-