Pat,
I really would, for the most part, agree with your theory of letting time pass as a buffer to recent imprintation. However, in this case, my last experience at Somerset was the the seventh time I've been there (and first when the conditions were immaculate!) so I hardly feel it valid to paint my impression with the taint of freshness. I'd liken it to seeing a great work of art (i.e a Jasper Johns Flag or the Mona Lisa) again and really finding a fresh angle to appreciate it from.
I did call SH the third best in the state. I have played Ridgewood and Mountain Ridge, (and Hollywood, although years ago). I do agree Ridgewood is indeed a stronger golf course, but not a more enjoyable or architectually complete one. Metedeconk is another stronger test as are both the Baltusrols. None of these, including Mountain Ridge possess the charm, elegance and artistic design that SH has. Hollywood may be the only true peer for these traits, but as I said, I'd like to see it again.
Certainly, SH is limited to the sporty or lower grade championship quality. Against the pros, it is indeed defenseless, but so is Merion, NGLA, Sand Hills, Pine Valley, etc.. Any course that does not stretch past 7,100 yds these days is vulnerable to the pro's going out and ripping it up. It is for that exact reason that I feel SH earns its mettle and deserves its lofty rank. I simply can't think that a round at Ridgewood, Baltusrol Lower, Mountain Ridge, Due Process, Canoe Brook, or anywhere other than PVGC or Plainfield ,(or maybe Hollywood) comes close.
Both you and Matt are certainly the doyens of NJ golf, and both of you don't lack for an opinion about your styles and favorites....I have only been a NJ voter for 9 months, but grew up just across the Hudson, on a pair of wonderful Tillinghasts, and feel equally qualified to review SH's qualities relative to the other tracks I've toured.