diff --git a/sau/gentoo.py b/sau/gentoo.py
index 2fd878a..14017aa 100644
--- a/sau/gentoo.py
+++ b/sau/gentoo.py
@@ -207,7 +207,7 @@ def pkg_upgrade():
                 if line.startswith(' * '):
                     log.warning(line)
 
-    if do_grub:
+    if do_grub and os.path.exists(GRUB_MKCONFIG):
         keep_kernels = conf.getint('default', 'keep_kernels', fallback=4)
         if keep_kernels < 1:
             log.error('keep_kernels cannot be less than one; falling back to default')