[EdZ]

Yes, the punch shot is best done as a 'hit'. Ball back a touch, weight very much on your left side, driving PP#1 downplane to both arms straight. Get those hands ahead of the ball through impact.

As for the higher flight, you may also want to try different shafts. A softer/lighter shaft will often produce a higher flight, and vice versa for a heavier/firmer shaft. That said, well struck shots can hold up to quite a lot of wind. The better the impact, the less the wind will influence the ball. If the ball is being blown around a lot and/or you can't hear the 'sizzle', practice that punch shot and you'll gain a lot of control. The ball you play can have a very large influence as well. Hard to say for sure without seeing it in person.