the bouchot mussel comes from France. the bouchot mussel is the same mussel as the mussel that also occurs in our waters. the bouchot mussel is a hobstone culture mussel that grows up in bunches of oak or chestnut wooden poles placed in the sea. the bouchot mussel is usually much smaller than the regular mussel we have in the north. There are several varieties for sale in France, besides the moule bouchot there is the moule bouzique and the moule pleine Mer for sale. Mossel lovers often find this small mussel the most delicious of all. Because this mussel grows up in open sea and is not watered down in less salty waters, the bouchot mussel has a stronger flavor. The taste is mainly determined by the algae that the mussel has eaten.