12 months later, I'm here to report how it has stood the test of time and offer a long term review.
I'd be lying to myself if I expected the matt black surface to keep that finish forever - I've seen too many matt finishes in various products (not limited to coffee) that just don't hold up well. They do give a unique tactile feel, which manages to make it feel warm and soft to touch - much like a luxury European car interior when compared to a budget Korean car's plastic interior, but as you can see, the finish isn't forever.
In summary, its been a great jug. I expected the coating to suffer from age, which does make it look less attractive than when I first brought her home to meet the parents, but I like it - it feels comfortable and has a bit of patina to it now.
UPDATE August 2016: I didn't realise that the Italian company Metallurgica Motta s.r.l. who manufactures these jugs offers an exceptional 5 year warranty - now that is impressive!