Why Instagram Carousels and the New 4:5 Grid Are Game-Changers for 2025
Instagram has once again shifted the way brands and creators approach content. With the introduction of a 3:4 grid preview and a clear preference for 4:5 aspect ratio carousels, spirits and wine marketers have a unique opportunity to stand out in 2025. Carousels are now the most engaging post format, offering unmatched visibility and interaction potential. Here’s everything you need to know to adapt your strategy and maximize impact.
Why Carousels Are Instagram’s Top Priority in 2025
Instagram’s algorithm now heavily favors carousel posts, showing them multiple times to users who don’t engage with all slides initially. This means carousels not only boost engagement but also extend your reach over time.
Key Benefits of Carousels
Increased Engagement: Each swipe counts as an interaction, signaling to Instagram’s algorithm that your content is valuable.
Enhanced Visibility: Carousel posts are often re-served to users, giving them another chance to engage.
Storytelling Power: Carousels allow brands to create a narrative across multiple slides, perfect for tutorials, product launches, or behind-the-scenes content.
Versatile Content Format: Combine images, videos, graphics, and text for dynamic posts that cater to diverse audience preferences.
Understanding the New 4:5 Aspect Ratio and 3:4 Grid Preview
Instagram has officially transitioned its profile grid from the classic square (1:1 ratio) to a taller 3:4 ratio preview. While this doesn’t change upload dimensions (which remain 4:5), it does impact how your content appears on your profile.
What You Need to Know
Post Size: Use a 1080 x 1350 px (4:5 ratio) for all feed posts and carousels.
Grid Preview: The first slide of your carousel will appear in a cropped 3:4 ratio on your profile grid (1012 x 1350 px). Ensure key visuals and text are centered to avoid cropping issues.
Safe Zone: Design with both the 4:5 post size and the 3:4 preview in mind to maintain consistency across formats.
How Spirits & Wine Brands Can Leverage Carousels
Carousels offer endless possibilities for spirits and wine marketers looking to captivate their audience. Here’s how you can make the most of this format:
1. Tell Your Brand’s Story
Use carousels to highlight your brand’s heritage, craftsmanship, or sustainability efforts:
Slide 1: A bold hero shot of your product.
Slide 2-3: Behind-the-scenes distillery or vineyard footage.
Slide 4-5: Cocktail recipes or food pairings.
2. Educate Your Audience
Carousels are perfect for step-by-step guides or educational content:
“How to Craft the Perfect Old Fashioned”
“5 Ways to Enjoy Our Pinot Noir”
Each slide can break down a step or tip, encouraging users to swipe through.
3. Showcase Product Versatility
Highlight multiple uses or settings for your product:
Slide 1: A bottle shot on a bar cart.
Slide 2-3: Cocktail applications.
Slide 4-5: Seasonal recipes or limited-edition packaging.
4. Embrace User-Generated Content (UGC)
Feature photos or testimonials from customers enjoying your products. UGC builds trust and fosters community engagement.
Best Practices for Carousel Success
1. Start Strong
Your first slide is your hook—make it bold, visually striking, and attention-grabbing.
2. Tell a Story
Each slide should flow logically into the next, creating a seamless narrative.
3. Include a Call-to-Action (CTA)
End with a slide that encourages users to save, share, or comment.
4. Optimize for Mobile
Design with vertical scrolling in mind. Use large fonts and clear visuals that are easy to read on small screens.
5. Mix Media Formats
Combine images, short videos, graphics, and text overlays for variety.
Why Now Is the Time to Prioritize Carousels
Carousels are no longer just an option—they’re essential for brands looking to thrive on Instagram in 2025. With their ability to boost engagement metrics like watch time, likes, and saves, carousels give spirits and wine marketers an edge in reaching both existing followers and new audiences.
Ready to Elevate Your Instagram Strategy?
At Ford Media Lab, we specialize in creating visually stunning carousel posts that captivate audiences and drive results. Whether you’re showcasing a new product launch or telling your brand story, we’ll help you craft content that stands out in today’s competitive landscape.
Let’s create something extraordinary together.