Cardiff City, who entered the game as league leaders in the Championship, were seen off by goals from the inspired Lewis McGugan and then Dexter Blackstock as Forest ended their poor away record in superb style.
Billy Davies now sees his side up to 6th in the table and despite his protestations to the contrary, well placed to mount a challenge for promotion although the Scot continues to keep his feet on the ground.
"It was a very good three points but that's all it is as we are still in November," was the Davies verdict.
"There is a long way to go and we have done nothing yet."
Cardiff number two Terry Burton said afterwards: "There are a couple of reasons why we lost today and they can be found at both ends of the field.
"In a tight game you have to take your chances and today we didn't do that.
"Then we gave away two soft goals and that is a recipe for defeat."