It is the consensus (but not unanimous opinion) of the Orthodox on FR that BVI is probably the most patristically minded Pope we have seen since, well, maybe since the Schism... We tend to like him (as popes go, as you say!)
His writings on subjects like the liturgy while he was Cardinal Ratzinger are some of the most Orthodox-like writings to come out of the Roman church.
So your impressions aren't that off. I've been a bit of a fan of his since the mid-80's, when I first read things like "The Ratzinger Report."
Do I trust him? Well, he *is* a Pope... :-)