Robbie Fowler kept his nose clean, but Liverpool were denied their first away win in the Premiership this year by Pierre van Hooijdonk's superb stoppage-time strike from a 28-yard free kick.
Jamie Redknapp put Liverpool in front after 15 minutes, sending a vicious 25-yard drive past a stationary Mark Crossley after Ince had touched a short free-kick into his path. Dougie Freedman equalised on the hour.
Michael Owen atoned for two earlier misses 18 minutes from time when he raced on to Redknapp's long pass and fired into the top corner for his 22nd goal of the season. However, van Hooijdonk's late strike gave Forest a draw.
NOTTM FOREST: Crossley, Jean (Shipperley 88), Rogers, Johnson, Gough, Bonalair, Palmer, Edwards, Harewood, Van Hooijdonk, Freedman (Allou 78). Subs Not Used: Chettle, Woan, Beasant. Goals: Freedman 60, Van Hooijdonk 90.
LIVERPOOL: James, Song, Staunton, Carragher, Matteo, Ince, Redknapp, Berger, McManaman (Riedle 64), Fowler (Gerrard 78), Owen. Subs Not Used: Leonhardsen, Bjornebye, Friedel. Goals: Redknapp 15, Owen 72.
Referee: D Gallagher (Banbury).