If you don't intend to shoot under heavy rain then the 85/1.8G is a great choice, it is not small although quite light weight, fit in hand very nicely, and as sharp as the 1.4 version, I have probably owned and use 5 version of 85mm, from the 85/1.4Ai, 85/1.8AF, the original 85/1.4AF, then the 85/1.4AF-S, the newest one the 85/1.8G is right there on the sharpness. Great value.
Of all, probably the 85/1.8G has the least expensive material but does not look that cheap, built quality and focusing speed is very good, optically excellent. If The 100mm VR Micro is a good lens, if I were to chose only one lens for 85-100mm range, I will pick the macro, it is a universal lens for me, but it also cost about twice as much, but more versatile.
Nikon did not make any poor lens in these range, it is a matter of budget and preference. Performance wise, you can't go wrong with all these lens.
BR,
Pingang